LocationsLighting the Way to Justice
May 21, 2025
The life of Elmira Satybaldieva changed drastically when her child was diagnosed with a disability. Her partner left, leaving her with a problem. When it became necessary to protect her son's rights to receive alimony, Elmira went to court. But without the means to pay for a lawyer, she didn’t know where to go.
“Will my rights be protected? Where should I turn? Who will hear my voice?”Elmira often asked herself.
On the advice of neighbors, she reached out to the State-Guaranteed Legal Aid (SGLA) system. That decision changed everything. With professional support, Elmira was able to protect her child’s rights, regain her confidence, and move forward with hope.
The SGLA system was officially established in the Kyrgyz Republic following the adoption of Law No. 201 on State-Guaranteed Legal Aid in December 2016. This became an important step in the state’s implementation of the constitutional guarantee of protecting citizens’ rights. This law significantly expanded access to free legal assistance and laid the foundation for a more inclusive and equitable justice system aimed at creating sustainable and effective mechanisms for implementing this right.
UNDP has been a long-standing partner of the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic in strengthening the rule of law and expanding access to justice. Through its project “Strengthening Human Rights Protection and Equal Access to Justice,” UNDP helped shape and implement reforms that made free legal aid more accessible and responsive to people’s needs—especially for persons with disabilities, women, and children in vulnerable situations.
Amendments to the SGLA Law in 2022 introduced digital solutions, including online consultations, a national lawyer registry, and an expanded network of legal aid offices. By the end of 2024, these offices had provided over 84,000 legal consultations and more than 16,000 legal services nationwide.
However, challenges remain—particularly the shortage of qualified lawyers across the country. With only 441 lawyers currently engaged in the system, rural and remote communities continue to face barriers in accessing legal aid.
Nazgul Turdubekova, director of the Child Rights Defenders’ League public foundation, emphasizes the gap in services for children and families: “Access to legal aid for children in difficult life situations remains very limited. Yet such support is crucial for protecting their rights and building trust in public institutions. Many simply don’t know where to go or what help is available.”
Aliya Kalybaeva, a dedicated lawyer within the SGLA system, agrees: “Conditions have improved—there’s better compensation and stronger institutional support—but the system still needs more lawyers, especially outside the capital. The government is taking action to address this, and I’m hopeful these reforms will deepen and expand.”
Aliya Kalybaeva is the lawyer who took on Elmira’s case. From the first meeting, she provided guidance and clarity.
“Elmira couldn’t believe it—she had never received support before. Her son had the right to alimony, but she did not know how to properly submit the documents and where to go. I helped her collect documents, file the case, and advocate in court,” said Aliya.
The court ruled in Elmira’s favor. “Without state-provided legal aid, I would have been lost. Aliya helped me defend my rights, and I’ll always be grateful,” Elmira shared.
The SGLA system in Kyrgyzstan continues to evolve. In recent years, important steps have been taken. In 2024, amendments were made to the Law “On State-Guaranteed Legal Aid,” which now include specific provisions for parents and legal guardians in cases related to child protection and care in civil proceedings.
The national program of state-guaranteed legal aid covers both legal advice and qualified representation in courts. Consultations are provided by lawyers, specialists of state bodies and legal clinics, while court defense is provided by lawyers included in the state register. The program aims to increase access to justice for all, especially vulnerable groups.
“These changes give parents and legal guardians the right to free legal aid in cases involving the protection and care of children. We strive to ensure accessible and high-quality legal help for everyone to protect their rights,” said Aisuluu Mamasheva, a member of the parliament, during the bill discussion.
Aisuluu Mamasheva, a member of the parliament
Such progress reflects Kyrgyzstan’s growing commitment to rule of law, human rights, and equality before the law—core principles supported by UNDP and its partners.
The quickest way to access State-Guaranteed Legal Aid is by calling 114.
The hotline is free, nationwide, and provides timely legal advice, connecting people to the right support.
Other ways to access services:
Visit one of the 43 legal aid offices across the country (find addresses at www.ukuk-jardam.gov.kg)
Submit an online request via the website
Every person, regardless of background, income, or location, deserves the right to be heard, protected, and represented. The State-Guaranteed Legal Aid system is not just a service; it is a lifeline for those navigating difficult legal and life challenges.
This article is produced within the framework of the UNDP project “Strengthening Human Rights Protection and Equal Access to Justice in the Kyrgyz Republic,” implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Justice of the Kyrgyz Republic and funded by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland.
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