On October 22, 2024, a solemn ceremony took place where modern computer equipment and specialized software were handed over to women with disabilities, aimed at helping them acquire digital professions and integrate into the labor market. The event was organized within the framework of the project “InKoom – Promoting the Development of a Fair and Inclusive Society in Kyrgyzstan,” implemented with financial support from the European Union.

The number of people with disabilities in Kyrgyzstan increases every year. As of January 1, 2024, there were about 216,000 people with disabilities in the country, representing about 3% of the total population. Over the past five years, their number has increased by 10.5 percent. The current situation shows that the employment rate among people with disabilities is decreasing. Alongside the many challenges faced by people with disabilities, the issue of employment is critical.

In order to expand the economic opportunities and social integration of women and girls with disabilities, the “InKoom” project has carried out comprehensive work aimed at increasing motivation, providing professional training, and facilitating employment for women and girls with disabilities in Bishkek and Osh. A total of more than 120 women and girls with disabilities have been trained, with 30 of them successfully employed so far. The project purchased 15 sets of computer equipment, specialized software, and gadgets. These sets are intended for women with various forms of disabilities and meet all international standards and requirements.

The ceremony was attended by Chyngyz Mamatbek uulu, Deputy Minister of Labor, Social Protection, and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic, who stated, “Empowering women with disabilities is not only a matter of social justice but also an important factor in the economic development of Kyrgyzstan. We welcome initiatives aimed at creating an inclusive society where every person, regardless of their physical abilities, can realize their potential.”

Hans Farnhammer, Head of the Cooperation Section of the European Union Delegation to the Kyrgyz Republic In his speech, Hans Farnhammer, Head of the Cooperation Section of the European Union Delegation to the Kyrgyz Republic, said, “For us, the issue of gender is very important. We are always ready to support initiatives that protect the rights of women and girls with disabilities. I believe that Kyrgyz society should also help support such projects.”

“Our ministry is the authorized state body in the field of gender policy, employment, and labor, as well as the support of people with disabilities. Today’s event is very important to us as it aligns with our policy of supporting people with disabilities,” said the Head of the Gender Policy and Coordination Department for Protection against Domestic Violence of the Ministry of Labor, Social Protection, and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic.