Minister of Labour, Social Security and Migration Jyldyz Polotova reported a significant increase in the number of employed persons with disabilities to 2.3 thousand. This statement was made at the forum «Inclusive Employment of Persons with Disabilities in Kyrgyzstan»

The ministry explains that the forum was held to draw the attention of government agencies, public organisations and businesses to the issue of realising the right of people with disabilities to work. The event was attended by Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers Edil Baisalov, Jogorku Kenesh deputy Vinera Raimbachayeva, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Kyrgyzstan Monica Rizal, as well as employers and representatives of international and non-governmental organisations.

Edil Baisalov emphasised that ensuring equal opportunities for people with special needs is an indicator of the maturity of society, and the state should facilitate their full integration.

According to Jyldyz Polotova, there are more than 217,000 people with disabilities in Kyrgyzstan, of whom about 29,000 are economically active.

Since the beginning of the year, more than 500 people with disabilities have been employed or sent for vocational training. The programme «Social Contract» allowed more than 1.8 thousand people to start their own business. The Minister also noted that employers often face additional costs in creating conditions for people requiring special attention, but it is important to continue working in this direction.

Vinera Raimbachayeva added that the MPs require compliance with construction norms to ensure accessibility of infrastructure. Monica Rizal emphasised that inclusive employment is not only about fairness, but also an investment in a sustainable economy and a cohesive society.