The authorities of Kyrgyzstan propose to introduce strict restrictions on weddings and funerals.

The draft resolution aims to establish order in the organization of family events and memorials, taking into account current economic conditions, preserving moral values, and forming a unified approach to conducting national traditions in modern circumstances.

The proposed innovations include:

• Limiting the number of guests at weddings to 200 people and the slaughter of no more than one large livestock.


• Prohibiting large weddings with more than 350 guests.


• Prohibiting fireworks, excessive show programs, and extravagant traditions such as kiyit kiigizuu, sebete beruu, tushtonduuru, and coercion to expensive gifts.


• It is recommended not to slaughter livestock on the day of the funeral.


• The anniversary (ash) should not be mandatory.


• At memorials (after 3, 7, and 40 days), the slaughter of small livestock or one large livestock is permitted.

The authorities also recommend replacing lavish memorials with charitable donations to mosques or public needs.

The explanatory note states that the goal of the document is not to restrict traditions but to regulate them, as many families face serious financial difficulties to maintain status.

The project also provides for the active involvement of local administrations in explanatory work and monitoring compliance with the new rules.

Project

Appendix
ORDER

On measures to regulate family celebrations and memorial rituals in the Kyrgyz Republic
General provisions

1.1 This order regulates the organization and conduct of family celebrations and rituals for the commemoration of the deceased, including weddings, on the territory of the Kyrgyz Republic.

1.2 The order was developed to implement the Decree of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic dated February 24, 2022, No. 54 "On measures to regulate family celebrations and memorial rituals in the Kyrgyz Republic."

1.3 The order applies to the following events:

1) weddings;

2) sending off the bride;

3) celebrations for cradle laying, cutting of ties, circumcision;

4) religious rituals: "Hajj," "Umrah";

5) funerals and memorial events (three days, seven days, forty days, anniversary).

1.4 The purpose of this order is to prevent excessive extravagance and ostentatious luxury at events.
Goals and objectives

2.1 The main goal of the order is to regulate family celebrations, including weddings, taking into account national traditions and cultural norms.

2.2 To assist in organizing events in memory of the deceased in a calm atmosphere.

2.3 The objectives of the order:

— to form a culture of family celebrations;

— to reduce the financial burden on young families;

— to preserve national traditions;

— to prevent social inequality;

— to increase citizens' responsibility.
Procedure for conducting family celebrations and memorial rituals

3.1 Procedure for conducting weddings

3.1.1 Weddings should be conducted considering financial capabilities, without incurring debts.

3.1.2 It is recommended:

— to limit the number of guests to 200;

— to hold the wedding in one day;

— to avoid events that require excessive spending;

— not to hold weddings with more than 350 guests;

— to avoid excessive food preparation;

— to limit the slaughter to one head of cattle or one horse.

3.1.3 It is prohibited:

— to hold events that violate national traditions;

— to display ostentatious wealth;

— to organize wedding convoys of more than three cars;

— to conduct fireworks and excessive show programs;

— to coerce expensive gifts;

— to adhere to extravagant traditions such as "kiyit kiigizuu" and "sebete берүү."

3.1.4 It is recommended to promote the concept of "A modest wedding is a blessed wedding."

3.1.5 Photo and video services should be organized in a rational format.

3.2 Conducting the farewell party for the bride (kız uzatuu toyu)

3.2.1 It is recommended to hold the farewell party with an emphasis on family and spiritual values.

3.2.2 It is recommended that religious figures and public organizations conduct explanatory work on preserving national traditions.

3.3 When conducting funerals and memorials, it is recommended:

— to hold events on the day of the funeral without slaughtering livestock;

— the anniversary of the memorial is not mandatory;

— focus should be on prayer, patience, and unity;

— to explain through representatives of the clergy the principles of moderation;

— to comply with sanitary and food standards;

— at subsequent memorials, the slaughter of small livestock or one head of cattle is permitted;

— to prepare a modest table;

— to invite only close relatives;

— to engage in charity and make donations instead of memorials.
Authority of state bodies and local self-government

4.1 Local administrations:

— conduct explanatory work;

— organize events to reduce social pressure;

— promote exemplary celebrations through the media;

— develop and disseminate unified recommendations.
Parties involved in organizing family celebrations

5.1 Restaurant owners and organizers are required to comply with the requirements of the order.

5.2 It is prohibited to impose high-cost services on clients.
Control over the implementation of the order

6.1 Model standards for civil servants will be developed.

6.2 Ethical norms must be observed to prevent excessive celebrations.

6.3 The indicator of simplicity among civil servants serves as an example for society.
Responsibility for violating the order

• Individuals who violate the order are held accountable in accordance with the Code of Violations of the Kyrgyz Republic.