The key aspect noted in the report is the role of the leadership of the Akylkatchy Institute, which demonstrates a commitment to the interests of the citizens of Kyrgyzstan. Experts highlighted the openness and transparency in management, as well as cooperation both within the team and with external partners. The qualifications of the staff were highly praised, including adherence to gender balance.
Since the appointment of Jamili Akmatbekovna Dzhamanbaeva as Ombudsman, the work of the institute has stabilized due to the appointment of a competent leader and the introduction of high standards of service ethics. A Strategic Plan for 2023–2028 has also been developed.
Among the significant achievements of the institute are the increase in the number of recommendations accepted by the government, participation in the development of the draft Media Law, assistance with issues related to labor migrants, ensuring access for lawyers to detainees on weekends, as well as the implementation of a new system for handling citizens' appeals.
Despite having seven regional offices, the mission indicates a lack of resources and transportation for effective monitoring trips. Moreover, about 80% of the institute's budget goes to fixed expenses, making it difficult to develop new programs. Experts recommend improving the financial autonomy of the institute.
The report also emphasizes provisions of the constitutional law "On the Akylkatchy of the KR" that may limit the independence of the institute. In particular, the risks associated with the right of the Jogorku Kenesh to prematurely release the ombudsman threaten the stability and authority of this body. It is proposed to convey to the country's top leadership the need to amend legislation in accordance with the UN Paris Principles.
Additionally, the mission recommends enhancing the qualifications of staff in the area of international standards for the protection of human rights.
The assessment was conducted by the Asia-Pacific Forum in collaboration with UNDP and the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. Over the course of two weeks, experts conducted interviews, surveys of staff and partners, and studied the work of regional offices in Osh and Naryn.
The full text of the report is available on the akylkatchy website.
