On November 26, 2024, the Kyrgyz Parliament Council, supported by ILO and UN Women, launched discussions on implementing ILO Convention No. 190 during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. This meeting aimed to foster commitments to workplace safety against violence and harassment, with substantial contributions from national and international stakeholders. The Council adopted recommendations for future legislative measures, marking a significant stride in enhancing worker rights in Kyrgyzstan.
On November 26, 2024, with the support of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and UN Women, the Kyrgyz Republic’s Parliament Council on the Rights of Women convened to commemorate the launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. This meeting emphasized the country’s commitment to implementing ILO Convention No. 190, focusing on outcomes from regional discussions and evaluations of gender-responsive initiatives. The UN Resident Coordinator, Antje Grawe, highlighted the necessity to eradicate gender-based violence as essential for achieving gender equality, integrating this goal into the 2030 Agenda.
Kyrgyzstan became the first country in Central Asia to ratify ILO Convention No. 190 in June 2024, marking a significant step towards ensuring safe and equitable workplaces. Ms. Özge Berber Agtaş, ILO’s Gender Equality and Non-discrimination Specialist, initiated a series of policy dialogues addressing workplace violence. She presented various legislative measures from different countries that align with ILO guidelines, particularly focusing on proposed amendments to relevant labor laws by the Kyrgyz Ministry of Labour.
The policy dialogues fostered knowledge transfer between nations regarding violence prevention measures while allowing for robust discussions involving members of the Parliament, government officials, UN agencies, and international stakeholders. Notably, Vice-Speaker of Parliament Dzhamilya Isaeva underscored the critical role of legislative reforms in actualizing international standards.
Over 40 participants, including Members of Parliament and various organizations, contributed to this milestone meeting aimed at addressing workplace violence effectively. The Ministry of Labour will review suggested amendments with the objective of drafting comprehensive legislation that encapsulates the essence of ILO Convention 190, addressing the needs of vulnerable workers and promoting social mobility among them. Ms. Gulsharkhan Kultaeva expressed eagerness to collaborate with the ILO to rectify these issues and enhance the welfare of Kyrgyz citizens. Moreover, the Council adopted recommendations for the Cabinet of Ministers, pushing for proactive measures to implement Convention No. 190 and foster a better working environment for all.
The ILO Convention No. 190, adopted in 2019, addresses violence and harassment in the world of work, aiming to promote safe workplaces globally. The Kyrgyz Republic’s ratification in June 2024 marked a pivotal moment in Central Asia’s approach towards safeguarding worker rights and gender equality. The launch of policy dialogues during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence signifies not only a commitment to ILO standards but also a broader strategy to engage various stakeholders in discussing legislative reforms that reflect this commitment. The integration of gender-sensitive policies and labor legislation aiming to mitigate workplace violence continues to be a priority, especially in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals outlined in the 2030 Agenda.
The convening of the Parliament Council on the ILO Convention No. 190 in Kyrgyzstan represents a meaningful step towards reinforcing the commitment to eliminate violence and harassment in the workplace. With active participation from diverse stakeholders and the anticipation of legislative reforms, Kyrgyzstan is poised to set an example for other nations in Central Asia. Enhancing legal frameworks and ensuring equitable working conditions for all, especially vulnerable groups, is essential for fostering a safe and dignified work environment, reflecting progress toward achieving gender equality.
Original Source: www.ilo.org
