Kyrgyzstan Parliament Passes Laws Restricting Media Freedom, Torture Protections

Kyrgyzstan's parliament passed two controversial laws on June 25, 2025, which threaten media freedom and protections against torture, prompting strong condemnation from Human Rights Watch (HRW) and local media groups. The new media law mandates compulsory registration for all media outlets, including online publications, and grants the Cabinet of Ministers exclusive authority to regulate registration and closures, raising concerns about increased state control and suppression of independent journalism. Additionally, foreign ownership in media companies is capped at 35 percent, further restricting media plurality. The draft Law on the Ombudsman merges the independent National Center for the Prevention of Torture with the Ombudsman's office, effectively dismantling a critical oversight mechanism against torture. Critics highlight that these laws were rushed through parliament with limited consultation, reversing earlier compromises and violating Kyrgyzstan's international human rights obligations. President Sadyr Japarov has indicated intentions to sign the media law despite appeals from HRW and rights groups to veto both bills and ensure proper legislative review.