The President noted that the country has managed to resolve many long-standing issues, launch major international projects, and significantly improve relations with foreign partners.
However, some media outlets, while acknowledging these achievements, also point to a number of shortcomings. In particular, there is an opinion about the deterioration of the situation regarding human rights and freedom of speech. How do you comment on these statements regarding a possible rollback from democratic principles?
– Hello. In Kyrgyzstan, there is both freedom of speech and democratic processes. Compared to previous years, the free expression of opinions has become even more accessible. Citizens actively share their thoughts on social media and in the mass media.
People openly discuss social and political issues, share videos, and express their opinions. No one persecutes them for this, and they are free in their expressions. These opinions are discussed, read, and receive coverage when necessary.
However, sometimes one can hear: “Aren't people being detained by law enforcement agencies? Aren't human rights being violated?”. But it is important to understand that freedom of speech and democracy imply responsibility.
Detentions occur not for criticism or expression of opinions, but for actions that may destabilize the situation in the country, or for open calls to violate constitutional order. Should we simply turn a blind eye to this?
Deprivation of liberty is a serious measure, and law enforcement agencies act only based on a court decision, gathering the necessary evidence.
For example, last autumn, the public witnessed a conversation between one of the party representatives and a foreign citizen, where the funding of mass riots was discussed.
When laws are violated, such individuals often claim that they are journalists or bloggers. We are not against journalism, but we urge not to use freedom of speech as a shield for illegal actions.
Some, citing freedom of speech, incite hostility between regions. If their words divide the people along territorial lines, should we just watch?
To those who want to protest, we recommend holding actions in Gorky Park, inviting the media to express their demands, rather than blocking the work of government institutions. This is normal practice in most countries.
It is easy to mention developed countries in Europe and America, but what is really happening there? In the USA, immigration police killed two people under the pretext of disobedience, and Trump filed a lawsuit against the BBC for 5 billion dollars.
In Europe, demonstrators are often dispersed by force, activists are arrested, and others are kept under surveillance. This is reported by both the media and international organizations. This is not always bad. I believe that the interests of the state, its security, and integrity should come first.
I am confident that this aligns with the interests of society, including those citizens who sometimes, succumbing to emotions, speak of a “lack of freedom of speech” and “democracy.”
Therefore, as I have already said, there are no restrictions on freedom of speech or human rights. Claims from certain websites that there is no freedom of speech or that human rights are being violated in the country are unfounded.
Interviewed by the director of KNA "Kabar" Mederbek Shermetaliev.
