Kyrgyzstan has long been perceived as a country with an open public and media environment in Central Asia
The Media Action Platform of Kyrgyzstan has published a statement emphasizing the need to renew open dialogue between state authorities, society, and independent media. This text is available in open sources.
Recent events in Kyrgyzstan indicate the beginning of a gradual normalization of the socio-political situation, creating conditions for more open and constructive interaction between the state and independent media.
The decision of the Supreme Court of the Kyrgyz Republic to return the case of journalist and project leader of Temirov LIVE, Mahabat Tajibek kyzy, for reconsideration in the first instance court, as well as the release of akyn Askat Zhetigen uulu from the detention center, is perceived by many in the media community as a positive signal indicating the possibility of revising some approaches in the relationship between the state and civil society.
In its address, the Media Action Platform of Kyrgyzstan emphasizes the importance of using the current moment to initiate a broader and more systematic discussion on the role of independent media, civil society, and state institutions in the country's development.
The organization highlights that free and professional media do not pose a threat to the state. "On the contrary, independent journalism plays a crucial role in public oversight, allowing for the identification of abuses of power and corruption risks, as well as management errors by individual officials. In many countries, an open media environment helps prevent systemic problems at early stages and strengthens citizens' trust in state institutions," activists note.
The experience of recent years demonstrates that excessive restriction of space for independent journalism and public discussion can weaken mechanisms of public oversight. This creates a risk of abuses by some representatives of law enforcement agencies and other state structures. Therefore, the presence of strong independent media is considered a key element of the resilience and stability of the state.
Furthermore, the Media Action Platform of Kyrgyzstan reminds of the country's reputation as a place with an open media environment in Central Asia. "Maintaining and strengthening this reputation is important not only for internal stability and citizens' trust in power but also for Kyrgyzstan's international image, its investment attractiveness, and partnership relations," they emphasize.
In this regard, the Media Action Platform of Kyrgyzstan calls for the development of an open institutional dialogue between the state, the media community, and the civil sector.
Among the proposals, the organization highlights:
— the resumption of regular press conferences by the head of state;
— the organization of systematic meetings between the country's leadership and representatives of independent media and civil society organizations;
— the establishment of a permanent platform for professional dialogue between state authorities, the media community, and experts.
This format of interaction will allow for timely communication of real public sentiments and regional issues to the country's leadership, as well as informing about possible abuses, while giving the state the opportunity to directly clarify its position and receive feedback.
Activists are confident that cooperation between the state, independent media, and civil society can strengthen public trust in government institutions, enhance the country's resilience, and ensure the unity of the people of Kyrgyzstan.
In conclusion, the Media Action Platform of Kyrgyzstan reaffirmed its readiness for open and constructive dialogue.
photo www
