International human rights organization Amnesty International has called for a veto on amendments to the NGO law in Kyrgyzstan. The organization expressed deep concern over the parliament's adoption of the document, fearing a repeat of legislation that dismantled civil society in the past.
Amnesty International's Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, Marie Strazers, emphasized the importance of upholding the right to freedom of association and protecting the independence of NGOs. She urged the President to veto the law, highlighting the need for international partners to engage in dialogue with civil society organizations.
Strazers stressed that it is the government's responsibility to ensure respect for human rights and improve the lives of all citizens, especially the most marginalized. The recent legislation, known as the "foreign agents" law, could have serious implications for civil society in Kyrgyzstan if enacted.
On March 14th, the Jogorku Kenesh (parliament) passed the bill in its third reading, officially titled the "Law on Amendments to the Law on Non-Profit Organizations." Amnesty International's call to action aims to prevent the harmful legislative initiative from becoming law and protect the rights of individuals in the country.
