Freedom of expression eroding in Kyrgyzstan

We are very concerned by developments in Kyrgyzstan that curb freedom of expression and seem designed to encourage self-censorship among journalists, activists and ordinary citizens. These include a draconian draft media law, a restrictive court ruling against an independent journalist, and the potential liquidation of independent broadcaster April TV.

Journalistic freedom is under attack in Kyrgyzstan. Last year, the country ranked 120 in Reporters without Borders’ Press Freedom Index. This year, it plummeted to 144th position.

In a statement published today, we join several other international organisations in decrying recent developments in the country. We call on Kyrgyzstan’s authorities to uphold their international human rights commitments, stop restricting the press, and end harassment and retaliatory arrests of journalists.

Draft law risks repressing media

On 26 June, parliament passed a draft mass media law that gives authorities sweeping powers to prevent media outlets from registering, obstruct their work, and shut them down without judicial oversight. The draft law differs substantially from earlier versions, which were developed in consultation with the media and which the media community saw as an acceptable compromise.

Journalist legally abused

In late March, journalist Kanyshai Mamyrkulova was detained for publishing Facebook posts critical of the government. Mamyrkulova rejected the charges, noting her posts simply reflected current issues in the country. 

On 3 July, a district court ruled that Mamyrkulova is not allowed to leave the country for four years and must participate in probation service activities. The ruling also restricts what Mamyrkulova can publish online – a chilling way of silencing her. Any violations risks sending her to prison.

Independent broadcaster could lose license

Lastly, the final decision in a lawsuit by Kyrgyzstan’s public prosecutor against independent broadcaster April TV is expected on 4 July. The media platform risks being silenced on social media and having its TV and radio broadcasting license revoked.

The prosecution have relied on so-called ‘expert conclusions’ that April TV hosts “undermine the authorities” by expressing, in speech and through sarcasm and facial expressions, disapproval of the government.

Full statement

Read the full statement, which was signed by Civil Rights Defenders, Freedom For Eurasia, Human Rights Watch, Araminta, Freedom Now, Committee to Protect Journalists, Norwegian Helsinki Committee (NHC), International Partnership for Human Rights (IPHR), the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH), in the framework of the Observatory for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders, and the World Organisation Against Torture, in the framework of the Observatory for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders.