Deputy Chief of Staff of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic Almaz Raimbekov, who presented the report, noted that current legislation requires the consent of both parents to issue a passport. However, difficulties often arise, which is why it is proposed to issue a passport based on the request of only one parent.
Raimbekov explained that in some situations obtaining the consent of the second parent becomes impossible: one parent may be abroad, not involved in raising the child, or be unavailable. This creates difficulties for children participating in international competitions, receiving medical assistance, or taking part in sports events.
Deputy Zhyldyz Sadyrbaeva asked whether the requirement for the consent of both parents for a child to travel abroad would be changed. Raimbekov confirmed that this requirement would remain. The deputy also noted that the proposed changes are only a partial solution to the problem, as they do not provide a complete resolution.
Thus, although the child will be able to obtain a passport, traveling abroad will remain impossible without the consent of both parents. What is the point of this passport if the child cannot go to the Olympics or on vacation? What is the purpose of this bill?Sadyrbaeva emphasized that it is necessary to fully regulate the issue so that a child who has obtained a passport can travel with the permission of only one parent; otherwise, the passport will simply remain unused.
Raimbekov added that a general civil passport is necessary for receiving medical services and other important procedures.
“In the country, it is sufficient to have a birth certificate and an ID passport. No other passport is required. I believe this bill is half-hearted and makes no sense,” noted Sadyrbaeva.
Deputy Yrysbek Atazhanov agreed that the amendments are necessary but pointed out that the issues raised by Sadyrbaeva require resolution.
Deputy Cholpon Esenamanova suggested adding a provision to the bill that would exclude the requirement for the consent of both parents for a child to travel abroad.
Raimbekov responded that lawyers had already considered this issue, but it could lead to additional problems related to the child's safety and the rights of the second parent.
Deputy Gulya Kozhokulova requested that the Ministry of Justice speak at the meeting; however, representatives of the agency were not present.
“The Ministry of Justice should have provided clear answers to our questions. We are simplifying the process of obtaining a passport for travel, but the requirements for traveling itself remain unchanged,” added Kozhokulova.
After prolonged discussions, the committee approved the bill in the first reading.
