He noted that in Kyrgyzstan, this day has long been a symbol of respect and appreciation for women.
“The existing tradition of celebration includes congratulating classmates in schools and colleagues at work, as well as greeting mothers, daughters, and sisters at home. However, this holiday has a much deeper meaning. For me, as a social democrat, it is a day of remembrance and gratitude to all women activists who fought for equality, the right to vote, access to education, and active participation in public life,” Baisalov added.
I am proud to announce that Kyrgyz women gained the right to vote in elections significantly earlier than many European countries. This is an important part of our history and identity.
Edil Baisalov
According to him, it is extremely important for current generations of women, including daughters and sisters, to preserve and strengthen the rights and freedoms that their mothers had. “As the Deputy Chairman overseeing the social and humanitarian block, I think about this every day and strive to promote gender equality in my work. I would like to express my gratitude to modern activists and women leaders who continue the struggle for the recognition of women's rights and equal opportunities in our society,” he noted.
At the same time, he expressed concern about some recent legislative initiatives that could lead to limiting women's participation in parliament and other state structures to 30%.
“I am convinced that we must strive for genuine equality. If women happen to be more than men in certain areas, it should not come as a surprise,” Edil Baisalov added. “Respect for women is a deeply rooted tradition in Kyrgyzstan. People say: ‘kyrk chachy uluu,’ which emphasizes the importance and dignity of women.”
Unfortunately, the struggle for equality is not yet over, and male chauvinism still exists in our country, as it does in many others.
Edil Baisalov
“Therefore, March 8 is not only a holiday but also a day when we once again raise the issue of the necessity for real equality and women's responsibility in public administration. I want to congratulate the women working in this field, even though there are still few of them. The head of state, Sadyr Japarov, actively supports the promotion of women to leadership positions. The decisions and decrees adopted are aimed at creating opportunities for girls and women to work in state and municipal institutions.
Nevertheless, there are not enough women in our Cabinet of Ministers and at the level of regional and district administrations. This is a clear shortcoming that needs to be addressed.
Edil Baisalov
The President has set clear objectives for increasing women's representation in government bodies by 2028 and in the following years. On this day, I wish all women in Kyrgyzstan confidence, equal opportunities, and new achievements,” he concluded.
