Kyrgyzstan Death Penalty Plans Raise UN Human Rights Alarm

The United Nations has expressed concern about the potential reintroduction of the death penalty in Kyrgyzstan.

Antje Grawe, UN Resident Coordinator in Kyrgyzstan, called the death penalty a form of torture and stressed that it has no proven deterrent effect during the National Dialogue on Combating and Preventing Torture held in Bishkek on December 10, The Caspian Post reports via Kyrgyz media.

Grawe also highlighted shrinking space for human rights in recent years and praised Kyrgyzstan’s efforts to engage non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in dialogue. Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers Edil Baisalov noted that relevant ministries are reviewing the issue and emphasized that the new parliament, which includes many human rights defenders, could strengthen the Ombudsman’s role.

Ombudsperson Jamilya Jamanbaeva stressed the importance of coordinated efforts among government, civil society, and international organizations to prevent torture, noting Kyrgyzstan’s obligations under the UN Optional Protocol against Torture to monitor detention facilities and investigate complaints. Recommendations from experts will guide the future work of the Ombudsman’s Institute.