At Freedom For Eurasia, we are deeply troubled by recent actions in Kyrgyzstan that threaten freedom of expression and appear to promote self-censorship among journalists, activists, and everyday citizens. These actions include a harsh new draft media law, a restrictive court order against an independent journalist, and the potential closure of the independent broadcaster April TV.
Freedom of the press is under assault in Kyrgyzstan. Last year, the country was ranked 120th in the Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders. This year, it has fallen to 144th, indicating a significant decline.
In a statement released today, we stand with several international organizations to condemn these alarming developments. We urge Kyrgyz authorities to honor their international human rights obligations, lift restrictions on the press, and cease the harassment and retaliatory arrests of journalists.
The draft media law passed on June 26th grants authorities extensive powers to block media outlets from registering, hinder their operations, and shut them down without judicial oversight. This draft law significantly deviates from earlier versions, which were developed in consultation with media professionals and seen as a fair middle ground.
Furthermore, in late March, journalist Kanyshai Mamyrkulova was detained for Facebook posts criticizing the government. She denied the charges, stating her posts merely highlighted ongoing issues in the country. On July 3rd, a district court restricted her from leaving the country for four years and mandated her participation in probationary service activities. The court also curbed her online publications, effectively silencing her. Breaches could lead to imprisonment.
In addition, a lawsuit by Kyrgyzstan’s public prosecutor against April TV threatens to revoke its license, risking its presence on social media and its ability to broadcast on TV and radio. 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.
These developments vividly demonstrate how Kyrgyz authorities are tightening their grip on critics and dissenters, using all available procedural and administrative tools to limit their rights and suppress opposition under the guise of legal proceedings. Such practices undermine the credibility of the judicial process, turning it into an instrument of political repression rather than justice.
