The International Issyk-Kul Electoral Forum took place in the city of Cholpon-Ata, organized by the Central Commission for Elections and Referenda of the Kyrgyz Republic, 24.kg reports.
The forum has brought together over 100 participants from more than 12 countries across the CIS, as well as from near and far abroad. Among the attendees are heads and representatives of electoral bodies, government institutions, academia, expert communities, and international organizations.
In a video address to the participants, President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov highlighted the significance of the Issyk-Kul Forum as a growing tradition and a valuable dialogue platform that brings together electoral authorities, civil society, and international partners.
The primary goal of the forum is to encourage constructive and open discussions on advanced approaches to ensuring citizens’ electoral rights, to exchange best practices, and to develop joint recommendations.
Chairman of the Central Election Commission Tynchtyk Shainazarov emphasized the evolving challenges faced by electoral institutions. “What remains unchanged is the core principle: when people go to the polls, it means they care and believe their vote matters. Voter participation is a vital indicator of public trust in government,” he said.
CIS Interparliamentary Assembly Secretary General Dmitry Kobitsky noted that high voter turnout is key to legitimate governance. He also stressed the importance of countering voter apathy and fostering cooperation between authorities and international stakeholders.
Secretary General of TURKPA Mehmet Süreyya Er called for inclusive elections with meaningful participation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities. He also encouraged further collaboration through the Advisory Platform of the Central Electoral Bodies of the Organization of Turkic States.
Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) Parliamentary Assembly Executive Secretary Sergey Pospelov underlined the importance of electoral sovereignty in the context of regional security. He gave particular attention to the CSTO’s role in countering extremism and cyber threats during electoral periods.
UN Resident Coordinator in Kyrgyzstan Antje Grawe emphasized the need to strengthen the involvement of women and youth in elections. She noted that, ahead of the upcoming parliamentary and presidential elections, the forum offers a timely opportunity for reflection, knowledge exchange, and forward-looking dialogue.
The forum will continue with further discussions and presentations on international electoral experiences and innovations.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
June 27, 2025