Integrated Country Programme for Kyrgyzstan

The expert meeting on the draft UNODC Integrated Country Programme for the Kyrgyz Republic, which took place in Bishkek from the 10 th to the 11 th of March, served as a chance to discuss how UNODC could better support the dynamic nation in its development of effective Law enforcement practices and legislation, and in reducing drug demand.

The meeting participants came from a variety of civil and governmental sectors, along with foreign embassies and internationals organization, each contributing perspectives on how the Kyrgyz Republic might address the issues that it currently faces. The meeting began with an overview of the problems faced by the Kyrgyz Republic, which included organized crime, drug trafficking and widespread corruption, while outlining potential solutions to these problems. UNODC representatives then presented an overview of the organisation's mandate and its global, regional and Kyrgyzstan projects, after which the meeting's participants formed three working groups and discussed the topics of Rule of Law, Law Enforcement and Drug Demand Reduction. After considering the results of the working groups and the constructive comments offered during discussions, it was agreed that a draft Integrated Country Programme of the UNODC's assistance to Kyrgyzstan should be developed and submitted to the government and NGOs for final comments and endorsement.

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During his official visit to Kyrgyzstan, Mr.Fedotov, UNODC Executive Director, presented the first draft of the Integrated Country Programme to high level government officials for comments, additions and endorsement. The meetings also led to the signing of the KGZK50 project, which will provide comprehensive support to the State Service on Drug Control in order for the agency to function as the lead and coordinating body for both the counter-narcotics activity in Kyrgyzstan and the work of its regional counterparts. This support will include training and equipment, as well as any necessary development of legal, administrative or physical infrastructure.  This project will be the most significant initiative within the Integrated Country Programme (See front page reportage).