As Kyrgyzstan flirts with restoring the death penalty, activists warn that political expediency is trumping justice – and setting a perilous precedent for rights across the region. Report by Gabriella Jozwiak.
Activists have warned of a bleak future for human rights in Kyrgyzstan after the government announced plans to bring back the death penalty.
The brutal rape and murder of a 17-year-old girl in September sparked a national outcry, leading President Sadyr Japarov to propose a change to the constitution to allow capital punishment for serious sexual crimes, including child rape.
The New Internationalist is an independent bi-monthly not-for-profit magazine that reports on action for global justice. We believe in putting people before profit, in climate justice, tax justice, equality, social responsibility and human rights for all.
New Internationalist acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We acknowledge that these lands were stolen and sovereignty was never ceded. We pay our respects to Elders both past and present.
© Copyright New Internationalist 1973-2026. Except where otherwise noted, content on this site is licensed under Creative Commons.
Except where otherwise noted, images on this site are © the attributed photographer/illustrator or representative agency.