LocationsAdvancing Employment Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities in Kyrgyzstan
November 30, 2024
Aidar Shamkeev, barista at "Klever" cofee shop in Bishkek.
Bishkek, 30 November 2024 – In celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the Ministry of Labour, Social Security, and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and disability community, hosted the "Inclusive Employment of Persons with Disabilities in Kyrgyzstan" Forum.
The forum spotlighted the critical need to ensure equitable access to employment for persons with disabilities, addressing systemic barriers and promoting their active participation in the labour market. This initiative aligns with the State Program "Accessible Country" for persons with disabilities and other low-mobility groups in the Kyrgyz Republic for 2023-2030, approved by the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic, the priority aims are to ensure conditions for the employment of persons with disabilities, identify the needs of young persons with disabilities in employment, expand the opportunity to obtain a profession, as well as develop mechanisms for their professional education, training, and retraining.
“Realizing the right to work for persons with disabilities is at the heart of our national priorities. The 'Accessible Country' program is our roadmap to ensure no one is left behind in Kyrgyzstan's development journey,” stated Zhyldyz Polotova, Minister of Labour, Social Security, and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic.
UNDP and the Ministry, in partnership with the disability community, have presented The Guidelines on Disabilities-Inclusive Employment. These Guidelines are a comprehensive resource that includes recommendations on attracting, recruiting, and hiring, retaining jobs, ensuring professional growth and continuous development of employees with disabilities, creating Universal Design and an accessible environment, and providing persons with disabilities with reasonable accommodations in the workplace, as well as developing an inclusive organizational culture.
Monica Rijal, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP Kyrgyzstan
“Inclusive employment is not only a matter of fairness—it is a smart investment in building resilient economies and cohesive societies. By removing barriers and creating opportunities for persons with disabilities, we can unlock a wealth of untapped potential that benefits everyone,” said Monica Rijal, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP Kyrgyzstan.
The event showcased successful stories of inclusive employment and highlighted products and services developed by organizations of persons with disabilities. Participants from public, private, and civil sectors explored opportunities to collaborate and scale up inclusive practices.
“Inclusive employment is a matter of dignity, equality and empowerment of people with disabilities. Today's forum is a step forward in recognizing our abilities and contribution to Kyrgyz society,” emphasized Askar Turdugulov, Head of New Age organization.
Persons with disabilities face significant obstacles in accessing employment, with only 27% globally in the workforce compared to 56% of persons without disabilities.
Amplifying the voices of persons with disabilities and fostering their leadership is essential to create inclusive societies.
Disability-inclusive workplaces contribute to economic growth, innovation, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The forum marks a pivotal step in Kyrgyzstan’s commitment to an inclusive future, underscoring the collective effort required from government, civil society, and the private sector to eliminate barriers and create equal opportunities for all.
The forum is being held within the framework of the project “Promoting the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Kyrgyzstan”, implemented by UNDP, UNICEF and UNFPA under the overall leadership of the UN in Kyrgyzstan and with the support of the UN Partnership for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNPRPD).
For more information, please contact: Ainagul Abdrakhmanova, Communications Officer at ainagul.abdrakhmanova@undp.org or 0770755776.
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