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Dinara Ashimova, a member of the Kyrgyz Parliament, is driving legislative action to tackle climate change and integrate international environmental standards into national law. Her journey into policymaking began in the prosecutor’s office, where she confronted systemic gaps in waste management and environmental regulation. Recognizing that lasting change required more than enforcement—it demanded policy reform—she transitioned into politics to accelerate action on climate governance and sustainable development. Her work is not just about environmental protection; it’s about ensuring that the rights and well-being of all citizens, particularly women, are safeguarded in the face of climate challenges.
"When I was Deputy Prosecutor of the Leninsky District, I investigated waste management issues and inspected landfill sites. What I saw was alarming: heavy smoke, unsegregated waste, and no clear regulations on plastics, biological, and industrial waste disposal. At the time, the Air Protection Law did not mandate enterprises to report emissions, and regulatory agencies lacked enforcement tools. I filed reports to the mayor’s office and government, but I soon realized that without legislative reform, systemic change was impossible. That was when I first considered entering parliament to focus on policymaking."
Dinara Ashimova during the Central Asian Women's Dialogue Forum
Upon entering parliament, one of Ashimova’s key initiatives was the establishment of the Sustainable Development and Climate Change Council. Chaired by the Speaker of Parliament, the council includes ministers of natural resources, agriculture, health, economy, and education, as well as the Attorney General. This platform was created to facilitate collaboration between parliament and the executive branch in coordinating the country’s climate policy. Recognizing the scale of the challenge, Ashimova studied international best practices, attended global climate summits such as COP, and assessed Kyrgyzstan’s commitments under the Paris Agreement.
Dinara Ashimova, a member of the Kyrgyz Parliament
As a result, she initiated work on a comprehensive Climate Action Law, which lays the foundation for:
Reduce greenhouse gas emissions and advance carbon neutrality.
Strengthen climate adaptation efforts and resilience to environmental risks.
Establish a national system for monitoring, reporting, and assessing climate actions.
The law is now in its final stages of discussion. In collaboration with UNDP and other development partners, parliamentary roundtables, wide consultations, and negotiations with ministries and agencies are being held. The goal is not just to create a framework law but to develop an effective mechanism that will allow Kyrgyzstan to articulate its climate needs on the global stage and implement tangible environmental policies at the national level.
Beyond setting a legal framework, the law will enhance Kyrgyzstan’s ability to secure international climate financing by providing clear benchmarks, justified funding requests, and enhancing the resilience of the economy and engaging in carbon markets. It will serve as a key negotiation tool at global forums, strengthening investor and donor confidence and unlocking access to green finance, grants, and technical assistance.
A robust climate law will also help empower women in climate initiatives and the green economy. By ensuring targeted financial mechanisms and removing institutional barriers, the legislation can create pathways for women-led sustainable businesses. A dedicated budget for women’s entrepreneurship will enable more women, particularly in rural areas, to access green financing and educational programs. Financial institutions and educational programs must also equip women with the skills to lead innovations in sustainable agriculture, circular economy models, and environmental startups.
Dinara Ashimova during her opening speech on the launch of NDCs 3.0
As part of International Women’s Day, UNDP is highlighting the efforts of women driving change across various fields, from climate action to justice and entrepreneurship. Dinara Ashimova in her role as a Parliamentarian has consistently championed climate policy, ensuring that national legislation aligns with global commitments and fosters inclusive, gender-responsive solutions. Her leadership in strengthening climate governance and advocating for systemic reforms reflects the critical role of women in shaping a more sustainable future. By sharing her story, UNDP recognizes the broader movement of women leading significant action and accelerating progress toward gender equality and environmental resilience.
