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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...

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CSTO to Strengthen Tajik-Afghan Border in 2025

The Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) will begin implementing a program to reinforce the Tajik-Afghan border in 2025, CSTO Secretary General Imangali Tasmagambetov announced during a meeting in Moscow on Thursday, according to Interfax. Tasmagambetov explained that the program outlines concrete measures to enhance security along the southern boundary of the CSTO’s area of responsibility. This announcement was made during a meeting reviewing the CSTO secretariat’s and joint staff’s activities in 2024, as well as outlining objectives for 2025. The meeting was attended by Andrei Serdyukov, head of the CSTO joint staff. In 2024, the CSTO finalized and signed agreements related to equipping its collective forces with modern weapons and military equipment. The organization also conducted joint operational and combat training exercises and actively collaborated with international organizations. As it looks ahead to 2025, the CSTO is drafting an action plan to focus on key priorities, including securing the Tajik-Afghan border, which has long been a source of concern for member states. The organization includes six member countries: Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, though in December 2024, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that his country’s relations with the CSTO have passed the “point of no return.” The Shamsiddin Shokhin section of the Tajik-Afghan border, spanning more than 100 kilometers, has been particularly problematic for years. This area has witnessed numerous security incidents, including hostage-taking and attacks on Tajik citizens and military personnel. The CSTO’s planned measures aim to address these challenges and bolster the security of this vulnerable region. By strengthening border security, the organization is seeking to reduce the risks posed by cross-border threats, including illegal trafficking and extremist activity.

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Art and Inspiration: Capturing the Essence of Almaty

With colorful illustrations of landmarks, natural monuments, and city-life moments, Aidana Niyazalieva’s postcards of Almaty stand out. TCA spoke with the artist to learn more about her inspiration, creative process, and challenges behind her postcards and the Almaty arts scene. TCA: What inspired you to start making postcards of Almaty? I've been drawing since I can remember; everything surrounding me – my room, the streets, and the buildings – inspires me. This led me to study architecture. However, after working as an architect, I realized that my passion for drawing was stronger. I decided to try it, eventually devoting myself to illustration and turning this hobby into a profession. I started with the city I grew up in, Almaty, and created a few postcards of the views I walked past the most. This became a way to combine everything I love - art, architecture, and my love for the city. TCA: How do you decide which landmarks, views, or themes to feature in your postcards? I choose places and themes close to me that evoke an emotional connection in people. Usually, the ideas come from my walks around the city. During my walks, I take many photos for possible drawings. Sometimes, a few buildings of the same type could grow into a series of illustrations, as in the “Houses“ postcard set that was united by the old houses of the Soviet period located in a Golden Square area. Also, I might get requests from people about places they would like to see, as happened with the Kazakhstan Hotel or Esentai River illustrations. TCA: What is your favorite spot in Almaty to capture in your art, and why? My favorite place in Almaty is the old city center. Its unique architecture, with characteristic features from different periods from neoclassical to modernist buildings, and its streets with cafes and terraces have always attracted my attention. Those buildings keep their history, whether these are old houses with sophisticated details or monumental facades of theaters and institutes. When I'm there, I always look closely at small elements like the carved balconies, window frames, mosaics, and patterns on the facades – I try to capture them in every illustration. TCA: Are there specific stories or personal memories behind some of your postcard designs? As a local, I have a personal connection to almost every location I illustrate. Capturing a place authentically requires more than just visual reference - it also needs an emotional connection. That’s why I barely draw locations I’ve never visited. Behind almost every illustration is a moment tied to the place. For example, the Kasteyev Museum holds a special place in my heart. My grandma used to take me there often when I was little, and it’s where I first took art lessons. So, I decided to create this illustration to capture the architecture of the museum and the memories connected to the place. TCA: Can you walk us through the creative process behind designing a postcard? Firstly, after the location is...

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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 a 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...

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Migrants from Kyrgyzstan Anticipate Tougher Conditions for Work in Russia

A majority of Kyrgyz citizens believe that working conditions for migrants in Russia will deteriorate significantly in the near future, according to a recent survey by the FOCUS Alliance of Euro-Asian Sociologists. Survey Findings The survey results paint a grim outlook for migrant workers from Kyrgyzstan: 61.5% of respondents believe that conditions for migrant workers in Russia will worsen significantly. 14.7% think the situation will remain the same. 10.7% are confident that despite challenges, migrants will adapt. Only 4.4% are optimistic, expecting improved conditions for foreign workers. Another 8.9% found it difficult to predict the future of migrant labor in Russia. A similar sentiment was observed in Uzbekistan. According to the same survey: 35% of Uzbek respondents believe it will become impossible for migrants to find work in Russia. 28% believe the situation will remain stable. 22% are confident that migrant workers will overcome challenges. 6% expect conditions to improve. The survey, which included 1,433 participants, used a random sampling method with a margin of error of 3%. Stricter Migration Policies in Russia Russia has tightened its migration policies in recent months, with the State Duma passing multiple bills aimed at increasing oversight of foreign nationals. The crackdown on migration follows a terrorist attack at Moscow's Crocus City Hall, which reignited debates around national security and the regulation of foreign labor. Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized that the interests of Russian citizens must take priority in drafting migration laws. He also stressed the importance of migrants adhering to local legislation and having knowledge of the Russian language. These developments reflect a growing trend in Russia to limit migration and impose stricter conditions on foreign workers. Kyrgyzstan’s Response Despite the challenges, Kyrgyzstan remains committed to labor migration as a critical aspect of its economy. Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers Edil Baisalov reassured that the country will continue to export labor to Russia. Russia is a key destination for Kyrgyz migrant workers, with remittances from workers abroad making up a significant portion of Kyrgyzstan’s GDP. However, with stricter migration laws and a shifting labor market, the ability of Kyrgyz workers to sustain their livelihoods in Russia may face serious obstacles. The survey results highlight widespread pessimism among Kyrgyz and Uzbek citizens regarding the future of migrant work in Russia. Stricter migration policies and a focus on prioritizing Russian citizens are contributing to uncertainty for Central Asian migrant workers. While Kyrgyzstan continues to rely on labor migration to support its economy, adapting to the evolving conditions in Russia will require resilience and potentially new strategies to protect its migrant workforce.

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Uzbekistan May Reduce Prison Sentences for Inmates Who Read Books

Uzbekistan is considering a new initiative that would reduce prison sentences for inmates who engage in reading, as part of efforts to promote rehabilitation and personal development. Proposal Details The Milliy Tiklanish (National Revival) party has been advocating for this initiative for several years, inspired by similar practices in other countries. According to the party’s press service, a draft law has now been developed to bring the proposal to life. Under the proposed legislation, prisoners who read one book from an approved list and pass an exam on its content could have their sentences reduced by three days. The program would allow inmates to read up to 10 books per year, potentially reducing their sentences by up to 30 days annually. The reading list will be curated and managed by the Republican Center for Spirituality and Enlightenment, ensuring that the selected books align with the program’s goals of fostering intellectual and moral growth. International Inspiration The concept of reducing prison sentences through reading is not unique to Uzbekistan. Last year, Russian politician Vladislav Davankov proposed a similar initiative for inmates in pretrial detention centers and prisons. Davankov argued that reading programs could play a vital role in the rehabilitation and resocialization of prisoners. Kazakhstan has already taken steps in this direction. In 2021, the country launched a pilot project in correctional facilities in the Karaganda region. Under this program, inmates read books from an approved list, retell the content to a commission, and write essays summarizing the material. Positive evaluations by the commission can lead to improved detention conditions or even early release. Broader Implications If implemented, the program in Uzbekistan could serve as a tool to encourage education, personal growth, and rehabilitation among inmates. By focusing on intellectual engagement, the initiative could help prisoners reintegrate into society upon release and reduce recidivism rates. While the draft law is still in the development stage, it reflects Uzbekistan’s broader efforts to modernize its prison system and promote rehabilitation over punishment. If successful, the initiative could become a model for other countries in the region seeking to implement progressive approaches to criminal justice.