The training aimed to strengthen professional skills for accurate, objective, and inclusive coverage of issues related to the rule of law, access to justice, and the rights of persons with disabilities, with attention to gender aspects. Participants discussed the role of media in ensuring access to justice, the key barriers faced by different population groups, and the principles of ethical reporting on disability. 

Representatives of government institutions and international organizations addressed the participants with welcoming remarks. 

Tolkunbek Isakov, Deputy Chair of the Council on the Affairs of Persons with Disabilities, emphasized the important role of mass media in promoting the rights of persons with disabilities and in shaping public understanding of the barriers they face in everyday life, including when seeking access to the justice system. 

Cholpon Mambetaiypova, Head of the Social Services Sector of the Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic, noted that the media has significant influence on public processes. According to her, through publications, reports, and analytical materials, journalists can not only raise important social issues but also help shape the public agenda, strengthen attention to human rights, and contribute to the development of more just and inclusive policies. 

In his welcoming remarks, Patrick Haverman, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP in the Kyrgyz Republic, highlighted the important role of the media: 

“Every day, through your stories, reports, and digital content, you help people understand complex issues, shape public discussions, and influence how society perceives justice, equality, and human dignity.” 

He also emphasized that access to justice is one of the foundations of the rule of law; however, many people, especially persons with disabilities, continue to face serious barriers. In this context, media play a key role: through their reporting they can highlight existing challenges, give a voice to vulnerable groups, and contribute to building a more just and inclusive society. 

During the training, participants analyzed real media cases, discussed appropriate terminology, gender aspects, and practical tools for preparing materials without discrimination or stigmatization. 

The training was conducted by media trainer and expert Asel Sooronbaeva. Participants were introduced to methodological materials, including guidelines and a training module on inclusive media coverage of access to justice. 

Such initiatives contribute to the development of responsible journalism and the creation of a society in which the rights and dignity of every person are respected and protected. 

A similar training is planned to be held in the city of Osh. 

The event was organized at the initiative of the Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic and the Council on the Affairs of Persons with Disabilities under the Cabinet of Ministers within the framework of the UNDP and Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland project “Strengthening Human Rights Protection and Equal Access to Justice in the Kyrgyz Republic.”