Constitution vs. Reality for LGBTQ of Kyrgyzstan

The values ​​of equality and freedom, which are granted by the Constitution of Kyrgyz Republic, do not always work in practice. Constitutional norms are nominal when it comes to LGBTQ rights. Social distance and hostility aimed at lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgender and queer people become the motive for crimes and violence not only from society, but also from government bodies.

Studies of LGBT organizations in Kyrgyzstan show that LGBTQ people cannot rely on the protection that law enforcement agencies are supposed to provide. Fear of facing even greater violence, humiliation and discrimination becomes an obstacle to report crimes that LGBTQ people face.

94% of police representatives, who took part in the study of Kyrgyz Indigo LGBT Organization, believe that homosexuality must not be accepted by the society, 86% think that it is a disease, despite the statements that the World Health Organization made in 1990. Less than half of the respondents treat LGBTQ people as equal members of society, despite the Constitution, which speaks of equal rights for all in Kyrgyzstan. This data makes one wonder how an LGBTQ-person can entrust his security to police who do not recognize him as an equal citizen.

Due to homophobia and transphobia in police, most LGBTQ people have to give up the opportunity to seek for protection of their rights and freedoms provided by the Constitution, state laws, international treaties signed by the Kyrgyz Republic, as well as generally accepted principles and norms of international law.