For many years, Kyrgyzstan has been considered a country with an open media environment and public space in Central Asia.
The Media Action Platform of Kyrgyzstan has called for the restoration of open dialogue between independent media, society, and state authorities. This appeal has become available to the general public.
"Recent events in the country indicate possible signs of normalization of the socio-political situation, which opens up prospects for more constructive interaction between the state, citizens, and independent media," the document states.
The decision of the Supreme Court of the Kyrgyz Republic to send the case of Mahabat Tajibek kyzy, a journalist and head of the Temirov LIVE project, for a new review, as well as the release of the akyn Askat Zhetigen uulu from punitive isolation, are perceived by representatives of the media sector and society as important steps towards revising the approaches in the relationship between the state and civil society.
The appeal emphasizes that this moment should be used to initiate a more systematic dialogue about the role of independent media and civil society in the country's development.
Activists are confident that free and professional media do not pose a threat to the state. "On the contrary, independent journalism plays a key role in ensuring public oversight, allowing for the identification of abuses of power, corruption, and management errors. In many countries, an open media environment helps prevent systemic problems and strengthens citizens' trust in state institutions," they note.
With recent events, it has become clear that narrowing the space for independent journalism and public discussions can weaken control mechanisms. This creates risks of abuse of power by some representatives of law enforcement agencies and other state structures. Therefore, the presence of strong independent media is an important factor for the resilience and stability of the state.
Kyrgyzstan has long had a reputation for an open media environment in Central Asia, and maintaining it is critically important for internal stability, citizens' trust in the authorities, as well as for the country's international image and investment attractiveness.
In this regard, the Media Action Platform of Kyrgyzstan calls for the establishment of an open institutional dialogue between the state, the media community, and the civil sector.
The organization proposes to consider the following initiatives:
— resuming regular press conferences with the participation of the head of state;
— conducting systematic meetings between the country's leadership and representatives of independent media and civil society organizations;
— creating a permanent platform for professional dialogue between state authorities, the media community, and experts.
This format of interaction will allow for timely communication of the real sentiments of society and regional issues to the authorities, as well as providing the state with the opportunity to directly explain its position and receive feedback.
We are confident that cooperation between the state, independent media, and civil society can strengthen citizens' trust in state institutions, enhance the country's resilience, and ensure true unity among the people of Kyrgyzstan," the appeal emphasizes.
In conclusion, the Media Action Platform of Kyrgyzstan expressed its readiness for open and constructive dialogue.
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