Second Orientation Seminar for Members of Parliament of the VIII Convocation

April 16, 2026 — The second of two orientation seminars for deputies of the VIII convocation of the Jogorku Kenesh (Parliament) of the Kyrgyz Republic has begun. The seminar is organized by the Center for Parliamentary Development and Democracy under the Jogorku Kenesh of the Kyrgyz Republic and is supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek.

April 16, 2026
Photograph of professionals in suits posing on steps outside a building.

Members of Parliament, UNDP and OSCE representatives

UNDP Kyrgyzstan

The second orientation seminar continues the systematic effort to strengthen parliament's institutional capacity through developing MPs' knowledge and practical skills on key aspects of parliamentary work. The program covers a broad range of issues, including constitutional and legal foundations, the legislative process, parliamentary oversight, and citizen engagement, in line with national legislation and international standards.

The seminars reflect the partners' shared commitment to strengthening parliament's role as a key democratic institution responsible for lawmaking, representation, and accountability. Given the new composition of the VIII convocation of the Jogorku Kenesh, this support is particularly important for ensuring institutional continuity and improving the effectiveness of parliamentary work.

 

“The Jogorku Kenesh is the highest representative body elected by the people. Therefore, the primary responsibility of every Member of Parliament is to place public interests at the forefront and contribute to the development of the state. This seminar will undoubtedly help strengthen your work, provide opportunities to learn from international experience, and enhance your professional capacity.

In this regard, as we open this orientation seminar, I would like to particularly acknowledge the valuable support of our partners. In particular, the United Nations Development Programme and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe have, for many years, supported the Parliament of the Kyrgyz Republic and contributed to the organization of such events. I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to our partners and reaffirm our readiness to further strengthen our cooperation.”

— noted Gulay Mashrapova, Member of the Jogorku Kenesh of the Kyrgyz Republic.

 

"UNDP partners with parliaments in more than 60 countries, based on the understanding that a strong and professional parliament is one of the key drivers of sustainable development.

International experience shows that parliamentary work grounded in dialogue, institutional continuity, and respect for diverse perspectives contributes to public trust and the stability of state institutions. 

We trust that the VIII convocation of the Jogorku Kenesh will make a meaningful contribution to advancing national development priorities, ensuring their alignment with the National Development Program of the Kyrgyz Republic until 2030 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including SDG 16, which aims to promote peace, justice, and effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions."

— said UNDP Kyrgyzstan Deputy Resident Representative - Patrick Haverman.

 

"Today’s seminar is aimed at deepening understanding of parliamentary procedures, clarifying the role of a Member of Parliament, and strengthening effective engagement with citizens, civil society, and state institutions.

The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe has been a reliable partner of Kyrgyzstan for over 20 years, supporting the development of parliamentary democracy, promoting transparent and inclusive lawmaking, and strengthening the institutional capacity of the Jogorku Kenesh.

The Programme Office of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe in Bishkek highly values its cooperation with Parliament and stands ready to continue providing expert and advisory support within its mandate."

— said Ambassador Volker Frobarth, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek.

 

The seminar also aims to foster a deeper understanding of parliament's role in implementing the Kyrgyz Republic's National Development Program until 2030 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, with a particular focus on SDG 16, which promotes peace, justice, and effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions.

The seminar program covers key aspects of parliamentary activity, including the Jogorku Kenesh's place in the system of separation of powers, the legislative function and procedures, parliamentary leadership and the culture of dialogue, cooperation with local self-governance bodies, and parliament's role in the budget process. Special attention is also given to human rights and international obligations, international parliamentary cooperation including within the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, and the implementation of strategic development documents.

In partnership with the Jogorku Kenesh, the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, and other development partners, UNDP in the Kyrgyz Republic will continue to support the strengthening of parliament's institutional capacity in the interest of more open, effective, and people-centered governance.