A presentation of the analytical review "Youth in the Kyrgyz Republic" took place in Bishkek, which was developed based on data from the population and housing census conducted in 2022.
The review covers an analysis of the situation of youth aged 14 to 35, which constitutes 35% of the total population of the country (2.416 million people). The purpose of the document is to create a well-founded basis for forming effective policies in the field of youth, social sphere, and economy.
The study examines demographic trends and the socio-economic situation of youth, identifies key challenges, and offers recommendations for leveraging the demographic dividend in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals. Special attention is given to issues of education, employment, family relations, and the situation of vulnerable groups of youth.
According to the 2022 census data, Kyrgyzstan has a unique opportunity: the largest educated youth generation since independence is in the active age. However, the lack of timely actions in the next 5-7 years may lead to the loss of this demographic dividend, which will result in increased migration and social tension.
During the discussion, participants highlighted several serious problems faced by youth, including limited opportunities for decent employment, a mismatch between skills and labor market demands, unequal access to quality education and healthcare services, as well as the vulnerable position of certain youth groups.
As potential solutions, measures were proposed to develop employment and vocational training programs, expand opportunities for youth entrepreneurship, and improve intersectoral cooperation.
As part of the event, a foresight session titled "The Future of Generations in Kyrgyzstan" was held, where through intergenerational dialogue, participants, including representatives of authorities, experts, and youth, discussed scenarios for the socio-economic and demographic development of the country over the next 5-20 years and identified key steps that need to be taken now.
The event was organized by the NGO "Resource Center for the Elderly" with the support of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Kyrgyzstan.
