Statistics and Data
Deputy Minister of Labor, Social Protection, and Migration Ainura Orozbaeva reported that according to official information, there are over 221,000 people with disabilities in Kyrgyzstan, of which about 29,000 are ready to work. She noted that this is a significant labor potential that the government aims to support by creating conditions for equal access to jobs and social protection.Orozbaeva also reminded about the state program "Accessible Country," which aims to create conditions for the full participation of people with disabilities in various areas, including the labor market. However, she emphasized that legislative and practical measures remain the main tools for expanding employment opportunities.
Bekeshev added that current measures are insufficient. "We plan to develop a new draft law for public discussion, which proposes a deduction from the profit tax for expenses related to workplace adaptation — up to 100,000 soms. If an entrepreneur spends this amount on equipment, such as a ramp or a computer for an employee with a disability, they will be exempt from profit tax on that amount," he explained.
Regarding the civil service, Bekeshev proposed amendments to the Law "On Civil Service," allowing people with disabilities to enter the personnel reserve based on a personal application, which would simplify the appointment process, similar to graduates of specialized educational institutions.
In the future, according to Bekeshev, a fund should be created to assist in the employment of people with disabilities. "Employers who do not wish or are unable to fulfill the quota will be able to make contributions, for example, in the amount of the minimum wage for each unemployed person. These funds will be directed to support employers creating jobs, as well as to directly create new positions. With the advent of digital technologies and artificial intelligence, opportunities for remote and intellectual work are expanding, and people with disabilities can successfully work in various fields. It is important to create incentives for employers," he noted, expressing hope for support for his initiatives from his parliamentary colleagues.
Monitoring Labor Rights in Regions
Mirdin Akhmetov, head of the department for socio-economic rights at the Ombudsman’s office, reported on the monitoring of labor rights for people with disabilities conducted on December 1 and 2, 2025, covering 18 organizations, six of which were located in Bishkek and Chui region, while 12 were in other regions. Three government agencies, eight private companies, and seven educational institutions were checked.According to him, the results showed that in four organizations, the quota of 4% is not being met, and the average employment rate of people with disabilities is about 1.7% in each organization. Only in one institution — vocational college No. 57 in Batken — the quota has been fully met, where five out of 53 employees are people with disabilities (9.4%).
What Needs Improvement?
Public advisor to the Ombudsman Askar Turdugulov noted that there have been certain successes in addressing employment issues for people with disabilities, but there is still much work to be done. He proposed a number of recommendations.In particular, he pointed out the need for subsidies from the government and international organizations. "In neighboring Central Asian countries, companies receive subsidies for creating an accessible environment for people with disabilities. For example, if there are no ramps or doorways need to be widened," Turdugulov clarified.
He also mentioned the American ADA law, where each government agency has a division that monitors its compliance. This allows for effective resolution of accessibility issues, including digital accessibility. The main problem lies not only in the existence of the law but also in its enforcement. "Clear monitoring is extremely important," the expert noted.
Additionally, he suggested that companies hold one-day events for people with disabilities, where they would be presented with inclusive job vacancies, as well as the opportunity to showcase their resumes and go through interviews.
In conclusion, Turdugulov emphasized the importance of Job Coaching for people with disabilities. This program will help prepare professional coaches who will support people with disabilities in job searching and on-site adaptation. In the first months, they will be alongside them, helping them understand how to properly integrate into the team," he concluded, adding that the implementation of Job Coaching in employment centers is extremely important.
Photo on the main page is illustrative: rg.ru.
