Specialists from the CIS exchanged successful approaches to engaging elderly people in society
A forum was held in Bishkek where the active longevity program initiated by the Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic was discussed. The main goal is to improve the quality of life for elderly citizens, as reported by the city hall.
Representatives from government institutions, international organizations, and civil society participated in the event. Welcoming speeches were made by Deputy Minister Ainura Orozbaeva, Deputy Mayor Victoria Mozgacheva, UNFPA analyst Asel Turgunova, advisor to the European Center for Social Welfare Alexander Sidorenko, and chairperson of the public organization "Resource Center for the Elderly" Svetlana Bashtovenko.
During the meeting, an analytical report titled "Aging Population of the Kyrgyz Republic: Challenges and Prospects" was presented, based on data from the latest population census of 2022.
Expert Valentin Bogatyrev emphasized the need to adapt social policy to changes in the age structure of the population. He pointed out the importance of developing the State Program "Active Longevity" for 2025–2030, which was discussed by Nazgul Cholumova. Experts from CIS countries shared their successful practices for involving elderly people in societal life.
"In Bishkek, measures are being taken to support elderly citizens: institutions 'Үмүт үйү' and 'Ардагер' operate, where 48 social workers assist 535 lonely elderly people. They are provided with scholarships, housing subsidies, utility discounts, and free transportation," the city hall clarified.
Forum participants emphasized the need for joint efforts from the government, society, and international partners to foster a culture of active longevity and a dignified life for elderly people.
Photo provided by the Bishkek city hall
