Kyrgyzstan presents preliminary findings and recommendations of the Country Gender Equality Profile
Date:
Bishkek – February 10, 2025 – The Ministry of Labour, Social Welfare, and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic, in partnership with UN Women and the European Union (EU), presented the preliminary results of the Country Gender Equality Profile during a high-level dialogue held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. This comprehensive analysis identifies key challenges in achieving gender equality and provides a roadmap for integrating gender perspectives into national policies and strategies, in line with major international frameworks and national strategies, including the Kyrgyzstan Gender Equality Strategy 2030, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).
"This document is crucial for analyzing the situation, setting priorities, and future planning. Like many other countries, Kyrgyzstan recognizes that ensuring equal rights and opportunities for women and men is an essential part of sustainable development," – stated Ravshanbek Sabirov, Minister of Labour, Social Welfare, and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic. He also expressed sincere gratitude to UN Women and the EU Delegation for their extensive support in developing this report.
During the event, representatives from government institutions, civil society, the UN and development partners discussed progress in advancing gender equality across seven key thematic areas: gender-based violence, sexual and reproductive health and rights, women’s economic empowerment, equal participation and leadership, women, peace and security, gender and climate change, and gender and digitalization.
"The Country Gender Equality Profile, once launched in the first quarter of 2025, will provide us with data, insights, and a roadmap for evidence-based public policies on gender equality. Now, it is our collective responsibility to turn these findings into action,” highlighted Belén Sanz Luque, Regional Director for UN Women Europe and Central Asia. “Gender equality is not just a policy goal; it is the foundation for a more just, prosperous, and sustainable future for Kyrgyzstan. Let us commit today to ensuring rights, equality, and empowerment for all women and girls. Together we can make all women count".
Kyrgyzstan has made significant strides in promoting gender equality and women's empowerment, particularly through key national frameworks such as the National Gender Equality Strategy until 2030, the State Programme on Women’s Leadership, and the State Programme on Women’s Entrepreneurship. The 42% representation of women in local councils marks a significant step forward, reflecting the country’s commitment to inclusive governance.
However, challenges remain. Kyrgyzstan still faces high rates of domestic violence, child marriage, and gender inequality in political and economic life. Women are still underrepresented in leadership roles, face a gender pay gap, and continue to bear an unequal share of unpaid domestic and care work.
One notable preliminary finding in the draft Country Gender Equality Profile is the recording of 14,293 cases of domestic violence in 2024, representing a 37% increase from 2023. Over 20% of marriages in Kyrgyzstan occur through Ala Kachuu (bride kidnapping), and women hold only 22% of parliamentary seats, despite existing gender quotas. On average, women earn 25% less than men, as they are predominantly employed in low-paying sectors such as education, healthcare, and social services. Addressing these inequalities is not just a matter of fairness—it is essential for sustainable development and inclusive growth.
"Gender equality is a priority for the EU both in Europe and globally. In the near future, the EU, together with UN Women, will launch a major new initiative to combat violence against women. We are integrating gender equality into all our programs to ensure justice and equal opportunities for all," - emphasized Hans Farnhammer, Head of Cooperation of the EU Delegation to the Kyrgyz Republic.
As Kyrgyzstan prepares its 2025 National Voluntary Review on SDG progress, the Country Gender Equality Profile will play a crucial role in shaping this report and advancing the National Gender Equality Strategy.
"The Country Gender Equality Profile is developed through an in-depth gender analysis of the economic, legal, political, and social situation of women in the country. It provides a roadmap for advancing gender equality, fostering stronger cooperation with the Government, UN agencies, development partners and civil society contributing to the realization of sustainable development goals in Kyrgyzstan," stated Dr. Sadiq Syed, UN Women Representative in Kyrgyzstan.
For more information, please contact Meriza Emilbekova, Communications Specialist for UN Women Europe and Central Asia: meriza.emilbekova@unwomen.org