Bishkek, 16 January 2025 - The Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic has approved the Programme of Implementation of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights for 2025-2027 and an Action Plan for its implementation. This makes Kyrgyzstan the 21^st country in the world and the first in Central Asia and the CIS to adopt and implement a national action plan on business and human rights.

The aim of the Programme is to promote corporate responsibility for respecting human rights, increase the country's investment attractiveness and create a unified approach in the work of government agencies on business and human rights. It is worth noting that more than 30 countries around the world have already implemented such plans, and 20 of them are actively implementing national strategies in this area.

The adoption of the Programme will allow Kyrgyzstan to strengthen its position in business development in Central Asia by demonstrating its commitment to international standards and creating a more transparent business environment. It will also be an important element in the country's development as a reliable and socially responsible partner for international investors.

The Programme was developed with support from UNDP, which provided technical assistance to the Ministry of Economy and Commerce and the Office of the Ombudsperson of the Kyrgyz Republic. UNDP also facilitated the establishment of an inter-agency working group to develop an action plan, a National Baseline Assessment on business and human rights, media campaigns and training.

The Programme will be implemented by integrating business development activities into government programmes and development strategies, establishing close cooperation between ministries and agencies, and focusing on training and human resource development. It will also involve international partners and experts to share experiences and best practices.

In 2011, the Human Rights Council unanimously endorsed the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, which have become an international standard for business conduct. These principles are based on three main pillars:

1. The State duty to protect human rights;

2. The corporate responsibility to respect human rights;

3. The need for greater access to effective remedy.

The adoption and implementation of the Action Plan in Kyrgyzstan is key to protecting human rights in the context of business, ensuring that the dignity, needs and interests of each individual are taken into account in a rapidly changing global economy.