OSCE and the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Kyrgyz Republic Mark the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction
Bishkek, 8 October 2025 – The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, in partnership with the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Kyrgyz Republic, held a national conference dedicated to the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction. The event took place at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Bishkek and brought together government officials, international partners, and representatives of civil society to discuss national and regional approaches to mitigating disaster risks.
In his opening remarks, Rati Japaridze, Head of EED Department POiB emphasized the importance of coordinated disaster risk management in a country as seismically active and geographically vulnerable as Kyrgyzstan.
“As a mountainous country located in a seismic zone, Kyrgyzstan is particularly exposed to natural hazards. The effects of climate change are intensifying the scale of emergencies and require greater preparedness and resilience, especially as the population continues to grow,” said Rati Japaridze.
He highlighted that disaster risk reduction remains a key priority for the OSCE, reflected both in the Helsinki Final Act and in the Organization’s ongoing mandate in Kyrgyzstan.
Mr. Japaridze commended the Government’s strategic approach as outlined in the Concept for the Comprehensive Protection of the Population and Territory from Emergencies of 2018–2030, which serves as a solid framework for interagency coordination and the development of unified national strategies in disaster risk management.
Mr. Japaridze also underlined the positive momentum in the cooperation between the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek and the Ministry of Emergency Situations, noting a sixfold increase in financial support for Ministry-led initiatives since 2017 and a marked strengthening of mutual trust between both institutions.
“We highly value our partnership with the Ministry and stand ready to continue supporting the adaptation of best international practices in areas such as disaster risk reduction, fire and radiation safety, and the use of geospatial technologies for forecasting and prevention,” Mr. Japaridze added.
The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek remains committed to assisting Kyrgyzstan in strengthening its disaster preparedness, early warning systems, and response mechanisms. Mr. Rati Japaridze emphasized that community engagement and public awareness play a vital role in building a sustainable and effective national disaster risk management system.
The conference provided a platform for exchanging experiences, reviewing progress in implementing national strategies, and exploring further opportunities for cooperation among state institutions, international organizations, and donor partners.