LocationsAdvancing Gender Equality Through Collective Efforts at UNDP
December 10, 2024
In solidarity with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, UNDP Kyrgyzstan reaffirmed its commitment to promoting gender equality and safeguarding the safety, dignity, and rights of all individuals. This year the campaign emphasized the theme: “Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls.”
To support this global effort, UNDP Kyrgyzstan implemented a range of impactful initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive, safe, and resilient communities, while addressing the root causes of gender-based violence.
UNDP team
On November 25, in collaboration with the Ministry of Economy and Commerce we presented key analytical findings and explored actionable recommendations for integrating gender considerations into fiscal policy. The discussions provided a platform for stakeholders to assess progress and identify collaborative strategies to advance gender-responsive fiscal policies.
On November 28, the Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) training was held facilitated by PSEA expert Ms. Khalida Azhigulova. The session gathered UN personnel to strengthen awareness of PSEA standards and UN policies, promoting safer and more equitable workplaces.
On 29 November, as part of the 16-day campaign, UNDP organized a series of sessions on gender-based violence for entrepreneurs participating in our projects in Osh region and in Bishkek. They learned about types of violence and how to respond and prevent it.
With the support of UNDP, a workshop was held on December 29 on integrating gender approaches into biodiversity conservation policies. Participants discussed how the equal participation of all groups of society contributes to the development of an effective National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan focused on sustainable development and implementation of the Global Framework.
During the workshop on integrating gender approaches into biodiversity conservation policies
On December 2, the Ombudsman Institute with the support of UNDP held an intellectual game “Quiz Night” as part of the global 16 days campaign against gender-based violence. The main topics included legislative norms in the field of gender-based violence, provisions of the Istanbul Protocol, rights of people with disabilities and activities of the Ombudsman Institute.
On 10 December, Human Rights Day, we marked a historic moment in Bishkek! Kyrgyzstan's first inclusive theater performance, “Shire-Sherine”, brought together 11 incredible women and girls with disabilities to share their personal stories of strength, leadership, and resilience.
“Sherine” is a term from Kyrgyz culture symbolizing a gathering where everyone has a voice—focuses on overcoming the intersecting challenges of gender and disability discrimination. Developed collaboratively with the participants, the performance aims to challenge stereotypes and drive conversations on inclusion.
Watch a documentary about the first inclusive theater in Kyrgyzstan at the link.
Participants of the Inclusive Theater
As part of the 16 days campaign, UNDP organized a series of internal sessions for its team to build capacity: a self-defense class, a parenting workshop, a session on healthy lifestyle practices, and first aid training. These activities focused on building confidence, promoting well-being, and equipping UNDP staff with practical skills for personal safety and resilience.
These initiatives reflect UNDP Kyrgyzstan’s unwavering dedication to the campaign’s overarching goal of eradicating gender-based violence through collective action, advocacy, and systemic change.