UN Coordinator Urges Review of NGO Legislation
UN Resident Coordinator in the Kyrgyz Republic, Antje Grawe, has recently voiced her concerns regarding the adoption of amendments to the Law of the Kyrgyz Republic “On Non-Commercial Organizations.” These amendments, approved on March 14, 2024, have raised worries about potential restrictions on the work of civil society groups, which could hinder progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In a statement, Grawe emphasized the crucial role that civil society organizations (CSOs) play in the country’s socio-economic development, provision of essential services to vulnerable populations, crisis response, human rights protection, and peace promotion. The enactment of the new law could present challenges for CSOs’ engagement in development projects aimed at poverty alleviation, inequality reduction, and SDG attainment. It could also lead to the stigmatization of CSOs and activists, limit human rights, and impede public participation and dialogue.
Highlighting the significance of a vibrant civil society for sustainable development, human rights, and democratic governance, the UN Resident Coordinator called for a comprehensive and inclusive review of the law. She suggested incorporating recommendations from UN Special Rapporteurs and other national and international partners, including civil society representatives. The UN expressed its willingness to engage in further discussions on these suggestions with relevant authorities and partners.
Additionally, the Parliament of Kyrgyzstan passed a bill on “foreign representatives” in its third reading, which is akin to the foreign agent law in Russian legislation. This bill, officially known as the draft law “On Amendments to the Law ‘On Non-Profit Organizations,'” signifies further legal developments affecting civil society in the country. It remains to be seen how these changes will impact the functioning and effectiveness of CSOs in Kyrgyzstan.
