In Kyrgyzstan, a reform of state print media has taken place, initiated by a presidential decree. This was reported by Marat Tagaev, Deputy Minister of Culture, Information, and Youth Policy of the Kyrgyz Republic.
According to Tagaev, there were previously several fragmented publications, such as the newspapers "Kyrgyz Tuusu" and "Slovo Kyrgyzstana," as well as the magazines "Baichichekey," "Kyrchyn," and "Zhetkinchek." Some of them operated on the principles of economic calculation and independently ensured the payment of salaries.
“Now an important decision has been made. The magazines "Kyrchyn" and "Zhetkinchek" have been liquidated, and based on them and other publications, a new publishing house "Kyrgyz Tuusu" has been established,” he added.
The new publishing house includes the newspapers "Kyrgyz Tuusu" and "Slovo Kyrgyzstana," as well as a new literary magazine "Ala-Too" and a children's magazine "Baichichekey." All of them now receive funding from the state.
The Deputy Minister emphasized that now the salaries of employees will be fully covered by the state budget, and author royalties will be allocated from funds received in a special account.
According to the reform, there will also be a consolidation of management and administrative functions. “Previously, each publication had its own directors, accountants, system administrators, and managers, but now there will be a single publishing house with a unified management system,” Tagaev explained.
He noted that the changes being implemented will not lead to a reduction in content or the abolition of national publications. “This is aimed at streamlining operations, eliminating duplication of functions, and more efficient use of budgetary funds. The saved resources will be directed towards content development, improving the quality of materials, and modernizing publications,” the Deputy Minister concluded.
