Kyrgyzstan’s New Action Plan on Business and Human Rights
The Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic has approved the Programme of Implementation of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights for 2025-2027 and an Action Plan for its implementation. This makes Kyrgyzstan the 21st country in the world and the first in Central Asia and the CIS to adopt and implement a national action plan on business and human rights, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Kyrgyzstan reported.
The aim of the Programme is to promote corporate responsibility for respecting human rights, increase the country’s investment attractiveness and create a unified approach in the work of government agencies on business and human rights.
The adoption of the Programme will allow Kyrgyzstan to strengthen its position in business development in Central Asia by demonstrating its commitment to international standards and creating a more transparent business environment. It will also be an important element in the country’s development as a reliable and socially responsible partner for international investors.
The Programme was developed with the support from UNDP, which provided technical assistance to the Ministry of Economy and Commerce and the Office of the Ombudsperson of the Kyrgyz Republic.
The Programme will be implemented by integrating business development activities into government programmes and development strategies, establishing close cooperation between ministries and agencies, and focusing on training and human resource development. It will also involve international partners and experts to share experiences and best practices.
In 2011, the Human Rights Council unanimously endorsed the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, which have become an international standard for business conduct.
Kyrgyzstan adopts national action plan on business and human rights
In a significant move towards enhancing corporate accountability and promoting human rights, Kyrgyzstan has officially adopted a national action plan on business and human rights. This initiative marks a pivotal step in aligning the country’s business practices with international human rights standards, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of ethical business conduct.
The national action plan aims to establish a framework that encourages businesses to respect human rights throughout their operations. It emphasizes the need for companies to conduct due diligence, ensuring that their activities do not contribute to human rights abuses. This proactive approach is expected to foster a culture of responsibility among businesses, encouraging them to take a more active role in safeguarding the rights of individuals and communities affected by their operations.
Kyrgyzstan’s commitment to this action plan is particularly noteworthy given the increasing global focus on corporate social responsibility. By adopting this framework, the government is not only addressing local human rights concerns but also positioning the country as a responsible player in the international business arena. This move is likely to attract foreign investment, as companies increasingly seek to partner with nations that prioritize human rights and ethical business practices.
The action plan outlines specific measures for implementation, including training programs for businesses, awareness campaigns, and mechanisms for monitoring compliance. It also encourages collaboration between the government, civil society, and the private sector to ensure that human rights considerations are integrated into business strategies.
As Kyrgyzstan embarks on this journey, the success of the national action plan will depend on the commitment of all stakeholders involved. Businesses must embrace the principles outlined in the plan, while the government must provide the necessary support and resources for effective implementation. With collective effort, Kyrgyzstan can pave the way for a more sustainable and equitable business environment that respects and promotes human rights for all.
