OSCE Centre provides platform to discuss challenges facing Kyrgyzstan’s new Parliament

BISHKEK, 28 December 2010 – A forum supported by the OSCE Centre in Bishkek to discuss the challenges facing Kyrgyzstan’s new Parliament following the formation of the country’s first coalition government was held in Bishkek today.

Parliamentary faction leaders, deputies of the Jogorku Kenesh (Kyrgyz Parliament), political parties, members of Government, representatives of international and non-governmental organizations, independent experts and media took part in the forum, which was organized by NGO “Parliament of Political Parties” with the support of the OSCE Centre, the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs and the International Republican Institute.

The purpose of the Forum was to address the challenges facing the new Parliament following the recent formation of Kyrgyzstan’s first-ever coalition government and citizens’ expectations. Participants discussed what key reforms are needed and what actions the legislative and executive branches should pursue. Particular attention was paid to the need for the authorities to meet the expectations and earn the trust of the people, many of whom have openly expressed frustration with those in power.

Opening the Forum, Ambassador Tesoriere, the Head of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, said: “Great responsibility and high public expectations are confided in the new Parliament. This Forum aims, through constructive debate, to support the new Parliament in identifying the key expectations and issues."

“The OSCE is ready to offer expertise upon the Speaker’s request in the preparation of any acts of legislation, within the OSCE’s range of competence, as well as to facilitate peer-exchange with the OSCE’s Parliamentary Assembly,” he added.

Roza Aknazarova, the chairperson of the OSCE-supported NGO "Parliament of Political Parties", added: "Problems must be solved in Parliament, not in the streets. But to do this, the Parliament must earn the trust of the people of Kyrgyzstan.”

The OSCE Centre supported the Forum as part of its assistance to Kyrgyzstan’s efforts to foster democratic pluralism and political dialogue.