Bishkek, 26 June 2024 – On the occasion of the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, UNESCO and UNDP held National Multistakeholder Coalition Consultation to address hate speech issues, emphasizing the need for tailored policy and technical- methodological solutions. The event aimed to promote international standards on freedom of expression, build effective national response through digital moderation and regulatory frameworks, and foster national capacity building.

Multistakeholder Consultation on the hate speech in the Kyrgyz language contents of social networks was organized in partnership with the Ministry of Culture, Information, Sports and Youth Policy of the Kyrgyz Republic and Media Consulting Development Foundation in Central Asia. More than 30 representatives of Ministry of Culture, Information, Sports and Youth Policy of the Kyrgyz Republic, President Office, National Commission on State Language and Language Policy, State Commission for Religious Affairs, KTU “Manas”, IT companies: DevKurultay, Urban Eyes, High Technology Park, Media community and UN- Agencies as well. 

National discussions and consultations are the driving force for determining a common methodology for identifying hate speech in the Kyrgyz language and the possibility of online regulation. 

According to Arslan Koychiev, Advisor of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic: “It is necessary to emphasize the responsibility of everyone to tackle hate speech and encouraging partnerships between Government, IT companies, Media and civil society on these issues”. 

According to Amir Piric, Director of the UNESCO regional office in Almaty: “Today, unfortunately, hate speech is spreading faster and infringes human rights and undermines overall social cohesion. UNESCO also at the global and national levels counters hate speech mainly through education, media, and information literacy, and promotes international standards on freedom of expression”.

Hate speech poses significant threats to social cohesion, human rights, and development. UNDP addresses hate speech as part of its broader mandate to promote inclusive governance, protect human rights, and foster peaceful, just, and inclusive societies. 

"Addressing hate speech is critical to fostering inclusive and peaceful societies. At UNDP, we are committed to working with governments, civil society, and the private sector to create environments where freedom of expression is balanced with respect for human dignity. This consultation is a crucial step in developing national strategies and technical solutions that protect individuals and promote social cohesion in Kyrgyzstan." – said Alexandra Solovieva. 

Melis Murataliev, Chairperson of the National Commission on State Language and Language Policy of the Kyrgyz Republic emphasized: “. Tackling hate speech is important and Today’s discussion helps strengthen our commitment to non-violence and peace narratives”. 

Digitalization and technology play a pivotal role in combating hate speech by providing advanced tools for monitoring, analyzing, and mitigating harmful content online. Through artificial intelligence and machine learning, it is possible to detect hate speech patterns in real-time, enabling swift responses and content moderation.

Murat Dzhumashev, founder of the DevKurultay, software engineer at Urban Eyes noted: “Urgent call is convening and partnering Tech and Social media companies with government in order to common understand and define criteria, vocabulary, data set on the hate speech issues for the further Artificial Intelligence regulation”.

In previous years, the UNDP has been working on tailor-made approaches to address and prevent hate speech through IT solutions, media campaigns, and knowledge products.

Consultation held under the project “Strengthening national capacities and civil society for social cohesion” implemented by UNDP, UNESCO, UNHCHR, funded by the UN Peacebuilding Fund.

About UNDP:

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations build integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet. UNDP's mission is to eradicate poverty while protecting the planet. We help countries develop strong policies, skills, partnerships, and institutions so they can sustain their progress.

About UNESCO:

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations aimed at promoting world peace and security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. UNESCO's programs contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals defined in Agenda 2030, adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2015. The organization works to ensure that every child and citizen has access to quality education, a rich cultural life, and the benefits of scientific advancement.

Media Contacts: Nurzhan Alymkanova, Communications Specialist UNDP Kyrgyzstan, nurzhan.alymkanova@undp.org