Local Politics - The Times Of Central Asia

Viewing results 241 - 246 of 1057

Energy Infrastructure

Kazakhstan’s Energy Minister Discusses Construction of Three CHP Plants with Russian Participation

Kazakhstan’s Minister of Energy, Almasadam Satkaliev, has provided an update on the construction of three combined heat and power (CHP) plants in the Akmola, East Kazakhstan, and Abay regions, projects in which Russia is involved. Russia’s involvement in constructing these cogeneration plants was first announced in 2023 by Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister, Serik Zhumangarin, during a forum on interregional cooperation between the two countries. Subsequently, Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Energy drafted a corresponding government resolution. According to Satkaliev, the feasibility study for the Kokshetau thermal power plant is now in its final stage. “We have started designing. Moreover, in the first stage, on-site preparation and clearing have already begun. We have practically started the construction of auxiliary infrastructure. For the Semey and Ust-Kamenogorsk plants, we expect to finalize feasibility studies this spring and will announce the figures later,” the minister stated. Satkaliev stressed that project costs remain a critical issue for Kazakhstan, and negotiations on financing will be conducted under strict conditions. “Samruk-Energo, which represents Kazakhstan in these projects, has been given the necessary instructions. Our primary financing scenario involves a loan from the Russian government with subsidization. Negotiations are ongoing, particularly regarding the amount of financing. Despite limited funding sources, we will take all necessary measures to ensure the timely construction of these plants, given their importance for economic security,” he stated. On January 28, during an expanded government meeting, Kazakhstan’s President Tokayev criticized the authorities' performance in the heat supply sector.

Kyrgyz-Tajik Border

Kyrgyz-Tajik Villages to Be Relocated as Part of Border Resolution

Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov recently spoke with the Kabar news agency about progress in resolving the Kyrgyz-Tajik border dispute. He also addressed plans for the relocation of villages and homes situated in the checkerboard-like border areas. Progress Toward Resolution Japarov provided an update on the status of negotiations, commenting: “The border issue is almost resolved. Right now, both sides are working on documenting the agreement. After this, the intergovernmental commissions will sign the documents, followed by the foreign ministers. Then, the parliaments of both countries will ratify the agreement. Finally, the presidents of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan will sign it, and the process will conclude with an exchange of notes.” Japarov noted, however, that the process would take time to finalize. “It will take another 1-2 years to carry out demarcation work before the issue is fully settled. The most important thing is that we have reached a bilateral agreement,” he said. Addressing Checkerboard Villages When asked about the fairness of the border resolution, Japarov highlighted the balanced nature of the agreement: “In border disputes, it’s impossible to consider only one side’s interests. Decisions are made by considering the needs of both countries. For instance, some disputed sections of the border were split equally. In cases where houses were mixed, like in checkerboard villages, we resolved these issues too.” To address these mixed-border settlements, Japarov explained that families whose homes fall on the other side of the border will be relocated. Tajik families residing on Kyrgyz land will be moved by Tajikistan, and Kyrgyz families on Tajik land will be relocated by Kyrgyzstan. “We will build new homes for them elsewhere, considering the size of their land,” Japarov assured. Peaceful Resolution a Priority Japarov emphasized the importance of resolving the dispute through peaceful and cooperative means. He underscored that resolving border issues would improve border management, avoid future tensions, and build trust between the two nations. Once the demarcation process began, Japarov promised full transparency and regular updates for the public. Historical Context Tensions along the Kyrgyz-Tajik border have been ongoing for decades, with significant disputes intensifying in the late 2000s and early 2010s. In these areas, infrastructure complications have exacerbated the problem. Both countries began constructing alternate roads to avoid crossing into each other’s territory, but rugged terrain and limited financial resources have slowed progress. One of the most challenging areas is the road connecting Batken to the Kyrgyz village of Ak-Sai and the Tajik enclave of Vorukh. This road weaves through Kyrgyz and Tajik territory several times, and in some sections, the road itself serves as the border.

Healthcare

Criticism of Kazakhstan’s Health Insurance System Reaches Parliament

Members of Kazakhstan's Mazhilis (lower house of parliament) have voiced strong criticism of the country’s healthcare system, particularly the Social Health Insurance Fund, which they argue has lost public trust. Many citizens reportedly view the quality of medical services as unsatisfactory. Kazakhstan operates a system of compulsory social medical insurance, wherein doctors' services are funded through a combination of contributions from working citizens, their employers, and the state budget. These financial contributions are collected by the Social Health Insurance Fund, which then allocates the funds to medical institutions based on the volume of services provided to the population. Speaking in Parliament, Health Minister Akmaral Alnazarova defended the system, claiming that it has led to improvements in key health and demographic indicators since its introduction. “Today, 83% of Kazakhstanis are connected to the compulsory social health insurance system, 72% of whom are from vulnerable segments of the population. This demonstrates the availability of medical care in the country,” Alnazarova stated. However, Mazhilis Deputy Chairman Dania Yespayeva pointed out that despite increasing healthcare budgets, public satisfaction with medical services continues to decline. According to surveys, up to 47% of Kazakhstanis consider the quality of domestic healthcare to be poor. Deputy Askhat Aimagambetov echoed these concerns, accusing medical institutions of manipulating service statistics to secure additional funding from the Social Health Insurance Fund. He cited a case where a five-month-old child, who had not yet developed teeth, was recorded as having received dental services. Aimagambetov also claimed that hospitals sometimes charge the insurance fund for dozens of services provided to the same patient in a single day - an impossibility. “The financing system encourages such behavior because payments are based on the quantity of services rendered, not on the effectiveness of treatment. As a result, the [Social Health Insurance Fund] has become a de facto bank for the Ministry of Health. Citizens and doctors alike have become hostages of inconsistent and poorly planned reforms, while the availability and quality of care have deteriorated. The system remains underfunded, and the resources it does have are spent inefficiently,” Aimagambetov stated. He emphasized the need for stricter oversight of the reports submitted by medical institutions to the insurance fund for reimbursement. Currently, inspections cover only about 1% of these reports, a figure Aimagambetov described as insufficient. Public dissatisfaction with health care is also reflected in broader trends. As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, approximately 5% of Kazakhstanis considering emigration cite access to better medical services abroad as a primary reason.

Gender Equality

Gender Inequality in Marriage: The Role of the Kelin in Kyrgyzstan

Gender inequality in marriage remains a significant issue in Kyrgyzstan, particularly with regard to the role of the kelin - the daughter-in-law - who is traditionally expected to shoulder numerous household responsibilities. In this patriarchal society, women often face pressure from their husbands' families, limited career opportunities, and an unequal division of domestic labor. According to recent data, 12.9% of women in Kyrgyzstan marry before the age of 18. This figure nearly doubles in rural areas compared to urban ones, reflecting stark regional disparities. Many families continue to uphold traditional expectations for women, especially the kelin, who is considered responsible for caring for her husband, his parents, the children, and the household. The Kelin: Between Tradition and Change Kyrgyz women have varying attitudes toward their role in the family. While some accept these expectations as part of their cultural heritage, others see them as a problem requiring change. Personal Stories Aizhan, 24, Osh (name changed): "After marriage, I was expected to leave my job and devote myself fully to the household. Although my husband supports my career aspirations, there is pressure from both his parents and mine. In the early years of our marriage, I had to prove that I was a good wife - cooking, cleaning, and pleasing my mother-in-law - even though I had the opportunity to build a career. My parents also insisted that I focus on household duties to avoid being ridiculed by others. This frustrates me, but my husband stands by me." Nuria, 25, Naryn (name changed): "In our social circle, it is rare for young couples to strive for equality in marriage. Traditional expectations remain strong, and sometimes compromises are necessary to maintain peace in the family. Early in my marriage, I didn’t feel much pressure, but after the birth of my child, I was often reminded that my primary role was now to be a mother and the keeper of the hearth." Ainura, 23, Bishkek (name changed): "In the capital, it's easier to be independent. More people here support the idea of equal rights. However, even in Bishkek, many girls face the expectation of becoming perfect kelins. This pressure usually comes from parents who cling to traditional values." Societal Expectations Beyond Marriage For many young women, gendered expectations begin long before they marry. From an early age, girls are taught to prioritize marriage and family above personal ambitions. Saule, 22, Bishkek: "I’m 20 and don’t want to get married yet, but my relatives constantly hint that ‘the clock is ticking’ and that I should start looking for a groom. They don’t understand that I have other plans. Sometimes they introduce me to potential suitors, which is awkward and frustrating." In some families, restrictions are imposed on daughters to preserve their "marriage prospects." Kamilla, 23, Bishkek: "I was often told to be modest, avoid friendships with boys, and dress conservatively because ‘I had to get married.’ Many girls like me missed out on a full teenage experience. However, I’ve noticed that the younger generation...

Legislation

Kyrgyzstan Tightens Regulations on Religious Activities

Kyrgyzstan’s President Sadyr Japarov has signed into law a series of amendments regulating the religious sphere. The amendments, approved by the Kyrgyz parliament on December 26, 2024, aim to ensure the rights of citizens while establishing clear responsibilities for religious associations in accordance with the Law "On Freedom of Religion and Religious Associations." Key Provisions of the Amendments The new legislation introduces several notable restrictions and guidelines: Prohibition of Face-Covering Clothing: Clothing that obscures a person’s identity, such as the niqab, is now banned in government offices and public places. Exceptions include clothing required for work or for medical purposes. Prohibition of Coercion in Religious Conversion: The amendments ban any form of coercion aimed at converting individuals to a particular religion. This includes targeting followers of other faiths, religiously neutral individuals, or atheists. Restrictions on Religious Ceremonies: Religious ceremonies, meetings, and other religious events are now prohibited in nursing homes, homes for the disabled, correctional institutions, pre-trial detention centers, and military units. Invitations to religious figures or preachers from foreign religious organizations for such events are also prohibited. Limitations on Religious Organizations: Religious organizations are prohibited from interfering in the activities of state authorities or local governments. Dissemination of religious literature, audio, and video materials in public places, educational institutions, or through door-to-door efforts is banned. Restrictions on Political and Electoral Activities: Political parties cannot be established on a religious basis, nor can they be financed by foreign entities. Civil servants are barred from engaging in religious activities, and religious materials cannot be used in electoral campaigns. Prohibition on Religious Terms in Business Names: The Kyrgyz Cabinet of Ministers approved list of religious words and terms that cannot be used in the names of businesses or legal entities. Prohibited terms include references from various religions, such as “Jesus Christ,” “The Bible,” “Jihad,” “Krishna,” “Kosher,” “Hajj,” and “Caliphate,” among others. Expanding Oversight of Religious Activities The new laws reflect the Kyrgyz government’s growing efforts to exert control over the religious sphere in the predominantly Muslim nation. Kyrgyzstan leads Central Asia in terms of the number of mosques per believer, with 3,593 mosques across the country as of 2024. Of these, 46 are registered in Bishkek and 89 in Osh. The country also has 220 religious educational institutions, most of which are located in the southern Osh region. The restrictions on religious literature, events, and political activity come amid broader efforts to regulate religious influence on public and political life. Implications for Religious Organizations The prohibition on using religious terminology in business names has drawn particular attention, as the banned terms include key concepts from Islam, Christianity, and other major religions. This move could limit the visibility of religious organizations and restrict their operations in the public sphere. Additionally, the ban on foreign preachers in sensitive locations, such as prisons and military units, underscores the government’s intent to limit external religious influence and maintain tighter control over religious practices within the country. Kyrgyzstan’s amended laws mark a significant tightening of state regulation...

Legislation

Kyrgyzstan to Ban Frog Imports to Combat Drug Trafficking

On January 23, Kyrgyzstan’s parliament discussed amendments to the law on combating the illicit trafficking of narcotics and psychotropic substances. Among the proposed changes is a ban on the import of frogs and toads, which can contain psychoactive substances. Psychoactive Risks of Amphibians During the parliamentary session, MP Iskhak Masaliyev questioned the use of the term “living organisms” in the text of the bill and asked for clarification. Deputy Health Minister Kaarmanbek Baidavletov explained that certain species of toads, whose skin and venom have narcotic effects, are prevalent in some countries. The amendment aims to prevent the import of such amphibians into Kyrgyzstan. Nurbek Abdiyev, Deputy Head of the Interior Ministry, elaborated that the term “living organisms” encompasses both plants and animals, including dried toads that are used as sources of banned substances. Unusual Laws and Global Context The bill’s sponsor, Meder Aliyev, referenced examples of foreign legislation to highlight the necessity of such laws, even if they may seem unusual. “For instance, in one U.S. state, teenagers are forbidden to kiss frogs because some frogs secrete psychoactive substances,” Aliyev said. While MP Iskhak Masaliyev supported the bill, he criticized its wording. “It turns out that now our young people are forbidden to kiss frogs! I’m not against this initiative, but it should have been analyzed in more detail when drafting. A frog is not just a living organism - it is an animal, an amphibian,” he said. The Danger of 5-MeO-DMT Some amphibians, such as the Bufo alvarius toad, secrete the psychoactive substance 5-MeO-DMT (5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine). This powerful alkaloid, belonging to the class of tryptamines, can cause intense hallucinations, euphoria, and a sensation of warmth when its vapors are inhaled. The compound is known for its use in shamanic rituals in South America and poses risks of misuse in other contexts. Legislative Context The proposed amendment aims to address concerns about the potential for these amphibians, or their derivatives, to be trafficked for illegal drug use. By banning their import, Kyrgyzstan seeks to prevent the introduction of new psychoactive substances into the country, reinforcing its broader fight against drug trafficking. The debate over the bill underscores Kyrgyzstan's ongoing efforts to strengthen its drug policies while also illustrating the challenges of crafting precise legislative language. While some aspects of the law may seem peculiar, the government views it as a necessary step to curb the risks posed by psychoactive substances derived from amphibians.