Partnership for Change: How PF “Ganesha” and UNDP are changing lives of women from key populations
January 13, 2025
In Kyrgyzstan, it is extremely difficult for women from key populations who have experienced violence to find a space where they can get help without judgment, stigma, and fear. However, thanks to the efforts of Public Foundation “Ganesha”, a sub-recipient of a UNDP/Global Fund project, such a place exists. It is run by Tatiana Musagalieva. Since 2008, she has been working with vulnerable groups, dedicating her life to protecting the rights of those who face violence and discrimination.
PF “Ganesha” is the only crisis center in Kyrgyzstan where women from key populations receive assistance: victims of violence, released from prison, at high risk of HIV infection or living with HIV. Since February 2024, the center has been providing 24-hour support focused not only on solving crisis situations, but also on creating lasting change in the lives of these women.

Tatiana Musagalieva
A space of trust and support
PF “Ganesha” provides not just a safe haven, but an opportunity to change lives. The staff here come from communities that have earned the trust and respect of those who seek help. They understand the complexities and nuances because they themselves have faced similar challenges in their own lives.
“We work as equals,” shares Tatiana. - A woman should feel safe and realize that no one will judge her. This is the only way to build trust and achieve real change.
The work of the center starts with crisis assistance: a safety plan is developed together with the victim, psychological support is provided, women get access to HIV and tuberculosis testing, as well as assistance in restoring personal documents.

Work of the PF “Ganesha”
From crisis to recovery
Each story of a woman who applies to the center is unique. “We have a case when a married couple asked for help,” says Tatiana. - The man was venting his aggression on his wife because of stereotypes about what a man should be like. He had no documents, could not get a job, and was not even registered in the birth certificates as the father of his two children. All of this put a tremendous amount of stress on him. We helped him to restore his documents, worked with a psychologist, which eventually improved relations in the family”.
There are many such examples. From February to December 2024, the center provided crisis assistance to 122 women and 165 people who use drugs. Moreover, during the same period, 178 women were trained in violence prevention and response. This is not only saving lives, but also a real opportunity to start changing their lives.

Bedroom at the PF “Ganesha”
Partnership with UNDP
An important part of PF “Ganesha” work is the implementation of the UNDP/Global Fund project, the funding of which is aimed at ensuring gender equality in access to HIV and tuberculosis services.
“UNDP is the only organization that supports such initiatives,” notes Tatiana. - It helps us to integrate approaches where the needs of women are considered into prevention and treatment programs, creating safe spaces for them like our crisis center.”
The impact of work on women’s lives
“A woman should realize that she doesn’t have to be shy to ask for help,” says Tatiana. Work of PF “Ganesha” changes the lives of not only women, but also their environment, breaking stereotypes and creating an inclusive society for all.
Through the commitment of Tatiana and her team, and a partnership with UNDP, the center has become a place where every woman can get support, confidence, safety, and access to services. PF “Ganesha” is an example of how perseverance, empathy and caring can change the world for the better.