“To be or not be a defender of human rights – is an ultimately decision of everyone personally. It depends on the inner strength and courage. But, of course, in all what you do, you must be a strategist, especially in our time”
-Tolekan Ismailova, during an interview with IWPR on March 3rd.

Growing Unrest, Violent Change,and New Challenges

Kyrgyzstan found itself in the international spotlight last week after growing calls for a change in leadership there gave way to horrific violence.  An estimated 80 people were killed and hundreds more injured as protesters clashed with security forces in several cities, including the capital, Bishkek.

Song kul, Kyrgyzstan (cc) dwrawlinson

WLP is happy to report that our partner, Tolekan Ismailova of Human Rights Center “Citizens Against Corruption” (CAC), is safe and doing well in Kyrgyzstan.  She was previously scheduled to participate in the World Movement for Democracy in Jakarta, Indonesia, but Manas International Airport was closed as the situation in Bishkek worsened.

One week later, the violence has subsided. Now, the former government has dissolved, former President Kurmanbek Bakiyev has left the country, and the interim Kyrgyz government finds itself in a particularly challenging situation.

A More Democratic Future

Under the leadership of Ms. Ismailova, CAC has already taken an active role in the rebuilding process. Their political participation will undoubtedly help shape a brighter future for the men, women, and children of Kyrgyzstan.

Mahabat Murzakanova at CAC has been updating the WLP team with the latest news:

On 12 April, CAC submitted a list of recommendations for the interim government of the Kyrgyz Republic.  Among these were the following:

• Implementation of the United Nations’ Millennium Development Goals:
  • fulfilling all obligations taken under international law, including the MDGs
  • making a concerted effort to reduce poverty, achieve sustainable human development by providing access to education and health care, ensure gender equality and environmental sustainability.
• Increasing foreign aid effectiveness:
  • strengthening Kyrgyz democratic ownership by involving to aid processes CSOs as partners
  • shifting from aid effectiveness to development effectiveness
• Focusing on Energy Security:
  • CSO participation in governance, with more government transparency regarding decision-making
  • public accountability of government energy management on decision-making (activities).

Women’s Learning Partnership stands with Ms. Ismailova  and Human Rights Center “Citizens Against Corruption” as they continue to be involved political process surrounding the new government of the Kyrgyz Republic.

Automagically Related Posts:

• Update from Kyrgyzstan on Tolekan Ismailova
• At World Movement for Democracy, a Voice from Kyrgyzstan is Missed
• Where Is the Primacy of International Law in Transitional Countries like Kyrgyzstan?