OSCE-supported report examines freedom of peaceful assembly in Kyrgyzstan
BISHKEK, 15 December 2014 – A report assessing the implementation of Kyrgyzstan’s 2012 law on peaceful assembly was presented at an OSCE-organized roundtable discussion in Bishkek today.
The report, drafted by the non-governmental organizations, Kylym Shamy and Youth Human Rights Group, focuses on the current state of freedom of peaceful assembly in Kyrgyzstan. The report is a compilation of findings from a series of monitoring activities assemblies that took place across Kyrgyzstan from October 2013 to the end of November 2014.
The authors of the report presented a number of recommendations on how to improve the implementation of the law. The report was discussed with government officials and civil officials, including those from local authorities as well as civil society representatives working in this area.
“The report highlights some negative trends concerning restrictions of peaceful assembly and the need for state authorities to more decisively implement their positive obligations in this area,” said Ambassador Sergey Kapinos, Head of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek. “Building the capacity of law enforcement agencies in implementing this fundamental freedom remains an area where the OSCE stands ready to develop follow-up activities, upon request. This will be even more important in view of preparations for next year’s parliamentary elections.”
Ulugbek Azimov from the ‘Youth Human Rights Group, said: “We believe that this year’s report will result in a more painstaking scrutiny of how the law on peaceful assemblies is implemented.” He also stressed the crucial role played by civil society in monitoring the implementation of legal initiatives in the country.
The report is the fourth OSCE-supported publication on this topic since 2011 and was prepared in close co-ordination with national and local authorities, including law enforcement agencies.