Currently, the issue of the Russian language is once again coming to the forefront in Kyrgyzstan, becoming a topic of public discussion. This is related to several significant events: the launch of the "NOMAD TV" channel, the opening of the Eurasian Center for the Support of the Russian Language and Culture, and the statement by Deputy Prime Minister Edil Baisalov that holding officials accountable for using the Russian language violates the Constitution. Additionally, President Sadyr Japarov emphasized the importance of the language issue during a meeting with Vladimir Putin, linking it to politics, culture, and strategic partnership.
The establishment of these projects marks an important step in expanding Russia's presence in the humanitarian sphere and increasing the volume of Russian-language media content in the country. The "NOMAD TV" channel will serve as a universal platform offering a diverse range of content—from analytics to cultural and educational programs. A key feature is bilingualism: programs will be broadcast in both Russian and Kyrgyz, reflecting the actual linguistic situation in the country.
Moreover, the Eurasian Center has opened in Bishkek, which will support the Russian language and culture. This educational platform is aimed at teachers, students, and civil servants, offering training, workshops, and meetings with experts. In fact, it is a new structure that will formalize the existing bilingualism and improve the quality of Russian language teaching.
Both projects—the media and educational—have become important elements of cultural diplomacy and strengthening ties with Russia.
"Do Not Violate the Constitution"
The significance of these events was heightened by comments from Deputy Prime Minister Edil Baisalov, who emphasized in an interview that "the Russian language is official according to the Constitution," and that "civil servants have the right to communicate in this language." He also noted that "pressure and accusations against officials for using the Russian language is a violation of the Fundamental Law."
Baisalov added that a large part of the population of Kyrgyzstan uses the Russian language for reading, thinking, and work, so restricting its use in public administration is not only unlawful but also socially dangerous.
These statements have sparked widespread public resonance. Many supported the Deputy Prime Minister's position, especially among educators, medical professionals, and civil servants, who tend to use the official language most frequently.
Kubat Umurzakov, former director of the Institute for Central Asian Regional Economic Cooperation and a candidate of economic sciences, reminded the correspondent of VB.KG that the Constitution clearly distinguishes between state and official languages.
“The Russian language is official. If someone wants to ban it, then changes must first be made to the Constitution. Everything else is emotion, not a legal basis,” he noted.
These words became an important counterargument in the discussion, emphasizing that any changes in language policy can only occur through constitutional procedures. Thus, the decision to amend the Fundamental Law can only be made by the people in a referendum. Kyrgyz people understand that the Russian language is an important part of everyday life, serving not only as a means of communication but also as a bridge for understanding between cultures. Knowledge of the Russian language opens access to quality education, enhances employment opportunities, and provides access to extensive information. This is why the Russian language is perceived as a familiar tool for growth and confidence in the modern world.
Geopolitical Context
As previously mentioned, the language issue gained an international context following the meeting of the presidents of Kyrgyzstan and Russia on November 26, 2025. During the negotiations, Sadyr Japarov emphasized that humanitarian and economic support from Russia is directly linked to the well-being of the citizens of Kyrgyzstan.
“Joint humanitarian initiatives between Kyrgyzstan and Russia strengthen our people-to-people ties and pass on the values of friendship to future generations,” the president noted.
These words, spoken against the backdrop of discussions regarding the status of the Russian language, became politically significant. They confirm that cooperation between the countries is viewed as an important aspect of social stability. In this light, the Russian language acquires not only cultural but also strategic significance, serving as the language of professional connections, economic cooperation, and humanitarian projects.
