On October 25, 2024, a significant informational and consultative meeting on the protection of rights of women and girls with disabilities who have experienced violence took place in Naryn.

The event was organized by the “Kyrgyz Association of Women Judges” (KAJW) in partnership with the Ministry of Labor, Social Development, and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic as part of the “InKoom – Promoting the Development of a Fair and Inclusive Society in Kyrgyzstan” project, supported by the European Union.

The purpose of the meeting was to inform professionals and activists about the current challenges and ways to address issues related to protecting the rights of women and girls with disabilities who have experienced violence. This area requires special attention, as the physical and psychological characteristics of individuals with disabilities make them vulnerable and in need of a specialized approach.

The meeting brought together a wide range of specialists, including lawyers, prosecutors, law enforcement officers, local government representatives, municipal services, social workers, and human rights organizations focused on protecting the rights of women with disabilities. Experts shared up-to-date information and discussed practical issues aimed at reducing the level of gender-based violence in vulnerable groups.

During the event, participants discussed key aspects of protecting the rights of women with disabilities and the challenges these women face in obtaining assistance. The session included an analysis of a real case where professionals reviewed an incident of violence. Prosecutors detailed how they provided assistance to a survivor who experienced violence from a neighbor, highlighting the importance of collaboration among various structures for timely and effective support.

By the end of the meeting, participants emphasized the importance and relevance of the topics discussed, underscoring the need for all stakeholders to unite efforts to establish a sustainable protection system for people with disabilities who have experienced violence. Attendees expressed readiness for continued cooperation and experience-sharing in addressing issues related to the protection of rights of women with disabilities and combating gender-based violence.

The “InKoom” project continues to raise public and professional awareness about critical issues of inclusive society, providing information and support to those in need of protection and participation. This meeting marked an important step toward creating a safer and more inclusive environment for women and girls with disabilities.