On April 2, the country's president announced the signing of a law amending the Law on Non-Profit Organizations on social media, assuring that there would be no persecution. However, Sadyr Japarov's statement sparked criticism among NGO representatives and the civil sector. They believe that his words do not reflect reality, especially regarding the registration and accountability of NGOs working in the country for the past 30 years.
Today, the head of state commented again on the document and his previous statements. According to Sadyr Japarov, "individual representatives of these non-governmental organizations distort information."
The law amending the Law on Non-Profit Organizations was discussed for several months with the main goal being the re-registration of NGOs funded from abroad, giving them the status of "foreign agent." It was also emphasized that the state should know the specific purposes for which foreign funds are being spent.
The Ministry of Justice reports around 25,000 registered NGOs, with about 2,000 funded by foreign donors. They will undergo re-registration, with a separate registry for "foreign agents." Japarov guaranteed that there would be no persecution, ensuring that they can continue their activities as before.
Japarov reiterated that there is no intention to persecute NGOs, emphasizing the need for transparency in their funding sources and activities. He clarified that the aim is not to interfere with their funds but to understand their purposes.
The president explained his previous statements, highlighting the need for NGOs to work according to the new rules set by the law. He emphasized that similar laws exist in other countries, including Western ones often cited by NGO representatives. Japarov concluded by inviting skeptics to research this information online.
