A press café titled "Women with Disabilities: Leadership Without Barriers" was held in Bishkek, dedicated to International Women's Day. Participants discussed issues of equality, dignity, and the real participation of women with disabilities in the country's development process. Behind the beautiful words about politics and inclusion lie the life stories of those who refused to be "objects of assistance" and became co-authors of change.
The event was organized by the office of the Ombudsman of Kyrgyzstan in collaboration with the Ministry of Labor, Social Protection, and Migration and the NGO "Agency for Social Technologies," with support from international partners.
Rights are a duty of the state, not charity
Ombudsman Jamila Dzhamanbaeva noted that March 8 is not only a day for congratulations but also an opportunity to discuss issues of equality and the fight against discrimination.She emphasized that women with disabilities, despite existing barriers, actively participate in public life and make significant contributions to the socio-economic and cultural development of their country.
“The protection of the rights of women with disabilities is not only an internal priority but also an international obligation of Kyrgyzstan. The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities requires ensuring the full and equal realization of all rights of women and girls with disabilities,” she added.
Dzhamanbaeva also noted that women with disabilities often face double discrimination—based on gender and disability—but when equal conditions are created, their potential is fully realized.
The problem is not with women, but with the system
Deputy of the Jogorku Kenesh Toktobubu Ashymbaeva emphasized that the problems lie not with the women themselves, but with the existing barriers.She highlighted key tasks aimed at breaking down these barriers:
- Education. Every girl, regardless of health status, should have access to quality and inclusive education, which includes not only physical facilities but also trained educators, adapted programs, and modern technologies.
- Employment and economic independence. Women with disabilities should have the opportunity to work and start their own businesses.
- Protection from violence and discrimination. This group of women is particularly vulnerable.
- Participation in decision-making. Without their voice, it is impossible to develop effective policies.
“You are not objects of social policy. You are its co-authors,” the deputy emphasized.
It is harder to change stereotypes than to build ramps
Gulmira Kazakunova, head of the NGO "Equality," has been defending the rights of women with disabilities for over 20 years and has a disability herself. She understands the existing problems well.In her opinion, today the main barriers are not physical obstacles, but stereotypes.
Stereotypes still make people think that a woman with a disability is only a recipient of assistance, not an active participant in change.
Gulmira Kazakunova
However, the situation is gradually changing: women with disabilities are becoming active participants in the development of laws, training civil servants, acting as experts, and actively participating in public discussions.
Nishana Zheenalieva: a step on the tatami as a step to oneself
To understand the importance of the participation of women with disabilities in public life, it is enough to listen to their personal stories.Nishana Zheenalieva, born without fingers on her hands and feet, has been overcoming both physical and social barriers since childhood—difficulties in education, misunderstanding from those around her, and internal insecurity.
After finishing her studies at a specialized school, she continued her education at a boarding school in Bishkek. Sports were not part of her plans at that time, and Nishana lived a normal life until a chance invitation to try herself in para-taekwondo changed everything.
The first step into the gym became a turning point for her: she trained in a regular group, without leniency or special conditions. The requirements were the same for everyone. Over the year, Nishana did not miss a single training session.
Due to the lack of para-athletes, she often faced opponents without disabilities on the tatami.
Each match required not only physical preparation but also psychological resilience, which strengthened her character and helped her reach an international level.
Sports became a source of confidence for Nishana. She accepted her uniqueness, refused special gloves, and made openness her strength.
At the same time, Nishana developed her own business, participated in creative projects, and raised her son, calling motherhood her main victory and source of motivation.
Today, her contribution is measured not only by medals but also by her influence on society: she demonstrates that professional sports are possible even in conditions of limited resources, and that the boundaries between "para" and "regular" sports are quite conditional.
Victoria Biryukova: from trials to human rights leadership
Victoria Biryukova suffered an ischemic stroke at the age of 13, which drastically changed her life. The years of rehabilitation were not easy—both physically and emotionally.Family support played a key role in her recovery, allowing her to undergo treatment and adaptation. Later, Victoria began working with a psychologist, met activists, and gradually returned to active public life.
She received higher education and a master's degree in philology, and during her studies, she volunteered in human rights organizations. Working with the Association of Parents of Children with Disabilities and the Central Asian Network of Women with Disabilities, she began her professional journey.
Since 2018, Victoria has been actively engaged in the protection of the rights of women with disabilities, participating in the creation of a shelter for women in crisis situations, where around a hundred women have received support over several years.
Her personal experience of discrimination in education, public places, and even in the family did not break her; instead, it became the foundation of her human rights position.
Today, Victoria continues to develop, studies the Kyrgyz language, plans to obtain a legal education, and tries her hand in politics.
She is confident that systemic changes are only possible with the participation of women with disabilities in decision-making.
In addition to her human rights activities, she leads an inclusive art project "Visible Voice," consults youth, and participates in the work of a coalition of human rights defenders.
