The European Union has called the adoption of the law on "foreign agents" by Kyrgyzstan a troubling event, however, it does not intend to reduce bilateral cooperation because of this, Akchabar reports.
On April 2, Kyrgyzstan's President Sadyr Japarov signed the Law "On Amendments to the Law of the Kyrgyz Republic "On Non-Profit Organizations," initiated by a group of deputies and the Jogorku Kenesh on March 14, 2024. The press secretary of the European External Action Service issued a statement regarding this fact.
"The recent adoption in Kyrgyzstan of the law on "non-profit organizations," better known as the law on "foreign agents," is a troubling event," the statement said.
It also stated that legislation restricting the freedom of activity of civil society organizations could have a negative impact on Kyrgyz society and its cooperation with international partners such as the European Union.
However, the European Union remains committed to bilateral cooperation with Kyrgyzstan based on respect for fundamental freedoms, the rule of law, and democratic standards.
"These values are an integral part of our overall scheme of preferences (GSP+) and our forthcoming Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA) with the Kyrgyz Republic," concluded the press secretary of the European External Action Service.
At the same time, the US Embassy in Kyrgyzstan also commented on the adopted law.
"The restriction of the work of these organizations and allowing unlimited government intervention in their activities may hinder the provision of American assistance aimed at improving healthcare and education, strengthening the rule of law, improving the provision of public services, and expanding economic opportunities for Kyrgyzstanis," the statement said. - "We will continue to cooperate with the government of Kyrgyzstan on issues related to the protection of civil society and fundamental freedoms."
CentralasianLIGHT.org
April 3, 2024