The Speaker of the Jogorku Kenesh, Marlen Mamataliyev, congratulated the women of Kyrgyzstan on International Women's Day, celebrated on March 8. In his address, he emphasized:
“Dear women! Esteemed mothers and sisters! On behalf of the Jogorku Kenesh of the Kyrgyz Republic and personally, I congratulate you on March 8!”
He noted that since ancient times, women in Kyrgyz society have always been held in special regard. They were considered the keepers of the home and played a key role in the well-being of the family. The status of women is highly valued in Kyrgyz culture, as evidenced by traditional expressions such as: “Paradise lies at the feet of a mother” and “The respect of a girl is like a magpie’s braid.” For centuries, the women of Kyrgyzstan have led the people forward, actively participating in the formation of an independent state. Bright examples of such women include Janyl, Kurmanjan, Urkuya, Zuurakan, Kerimbubu, and others, renowned for their strength of spirit, wisdom, and hard work.
Mamataliyev also reminded that after gaining independence, new horizons opened up for Kyrgyz women. In recent years, state policy has focused on supporting women, and recently President Sadyr Nurgozhoevich signed a decree on the implementation of gender quotas in the system of public administration. This mechanism stipulates that the share of representatives of one gender in the personnel reserve should not exceed 70%.
Today, there are 30 women deputies working in the country’s parliament, elected from various districts, which has been recognized on the international stage. The United Nations noted that Kyrgyzstan ranks among the leading countries in the world in terms of the number of women in parliament. Additionally, women head two major ministries. The Speaker emphasized that the country will continue to pay attention to issues of gender equality and the strengthening of women’s roles in public and political life.
However, Mamataliyev noted that cases of violence against women still occur. As the folk poetess Maiрамкан Abylkasymova said: “If you see a woman’s suffering, blame the son of that nation.” These words highlight the responsibility of men for the well-being of women and girls. He added that the words “mother” and “woman” contain a power capable of changing the world, and the future of the country largely depends on women who raise a new generation and preserve the spiritual values of the people.
“Dear mothers and sisters! I congratulate you on this holiday that comes with spring, and I wish you good health, happiness, and success! May your faces always shine with smiles, and your hearts be full of joy. May peace reign on our land, and may mothers' tears never be shed!” — concluded the Speaker.
