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Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan – October 11, 2024 the Central Commission for Elections and Referendums of the Kyrgyz Republic (CEC of the Kyrgyz Republic) will present the results of a sociological survey assessing the population's attitude to the mandatory 30% gender quota applied in elections to local councils. The survey was conducted by the CEC of the Kyrgyz Republic jointly with the Development Policy Institute, the Partnership for the Local Self-governance Development in the Kyrgyz Republic with the support of the Government of Switzerland.
"The issue of expanding women's political rights is not just a matter of equality and justice. It is a matter of progress, sustainable development and the common good for all. When women have the opportunity to participate in political life on an equal basis with men, we see more comprehensive and wise decisions that take into account the interests of all segments of the population. The Central Election Commission has its own special role in promoting women's leadership, understanding the importance of fair elections to local councils, creating conditions for women leaders to take a worthy place in the new composition of local councils," said Nurzhan SHAILDABEKOVA, Chairperson of the Central Election Commission.
During the presentation, the CEC of the Kyrgyz Republic and researchers will inform society about how citizens of Kyrgyzstan perceive the expansion of women's rights through their participation in local elections, and will also discuss the best methods of supporting women candidates in those areas where the process needs additional attention and support.
"Switzerland highly values the commitment of the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic to take practical steps toward ensuring that women are represented better in all levels of governance. Challenges remain and I am proud to see the contribution of DPI’s study in removing them," said Olivier BANGERTER, Ambassador of Switzerland to the Kyrgyz Republic.
The event will be attended by representatives of state and local authorities, international organizations, non-profit organizations, women deputies, independent experts and media representatives.
"For the first time in the country's history, we are analyzing attitudes toward the gender quota in local elections by district, taking into account traditions, mentality, and family relationship models. Without taking this context into account, it is impossible to provide effective support to women who seek to participate in the development of their community. A woman's active position does not contradict the spirit and customs of the people of Kyrgyzstan, but we need to find the right words and forms of persuasion for voters so that they make their conscious choice for women. We hope that the results of the assessment of attitudes toward the quota by district will help the state and all interested parties organize targeted work in the territories and with those age groups where such support is especially important," commented Nadezhda DOBRETSOVA, Chairperson of the Board of Development Policy Institute.
The presentation will take place in the conference hall "Ball room”, floor L (lobby) of the Sheraton hotel at 148 B Kievskaya st. from 9:00 to 13:00 on October 11, 2024.