Statement by the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities following visit to Kyrgyzstan

THE HAGUE, 30 April 2010 - The following statement was released today by the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities, Knut Vollebaek, at the end of his visit to Kyrgyzstan:

"The aim of my visit to Kyrgyzstan was to look into reports about a spate of attacks and threats against physical security and property of persons belonging to national minorities.

"Some of these reports have been substantiated during my visit to Bishkek and various regions in the country. Many Kyrgyz citizens of minority background live in fear. I have also been told that many are leaving Kyrgyzstan for good. This is deeply troubling and it could have long-term consequences.

"While I expressed understanding for the challenge of restoring law and order in the country, I urged the provisional authorities to meet their obligation to ensure security of all Kyrgyz citizens, including the country's sizable minority communities. I also stressed the need to publicly condemn anti-minority attacks, to investigate these crimes and to bring perpetrators to justice.

"In my talks with the provisional authorities I specifically emphasized the need to include minority communities in the process of constitution-making and the Electoral Code design and to take into account their wishes and aspirations. This will not only serve as an immediate confidence-building measure but would also send a signal to minority communities about their continued importance and value for the future of Kyrgyzstan.

"I was encouraged by the stated intention of Kyrgyzstan's provisional authorities to protect and promote human rights. Minority rights are an integral part of international human rights law. There can be no democracy without recognition and respect for ethnic diversity.

"It is my intention to support Kyrgyzstan's provisional authorities in their efforts to respect and promote minority rights. In the immediate future, I will assist them with advice in the process of drafting the Constitution and the Electoral Code in order to make them compatible with the country's international obligations.

"The longer-term perspective also requires that measures be taken in the fields of linguistic policy, education and participation. I reiterated my commitment to helping Kyrgyzstan tackle these challenges."