Kyrgyzstan toughens anti-torture law, broadens accountability
New amendments expand definition and extend liability beyond state officials
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan (MNTV) — Kyrgyzstan’s president has signed amendments to the Criminal Code aimed at clarifying the definition of torture and expanding criminal liability, officials said.
The legislation, adopted by the Zhogorku Kenesh on Feb. 18, revises Article 137 to define torture as the infliction of physical or mental suffering to extract confessions or information, punish, intimidate or coerce, as well as acts motivated by discrimination.
Under the new provisions, liability extends beyond government officials to include individuals performing official functions, even if they are not formally state representatives.
This includes persons exercising authority over dependent individuals — such as those involved in supervision, training, treatment or other forms of control — including employees working under labor or civil contracts.
Officials said the amendments aim to close legal gaps and strengthen accountability mechanisms in line with international standards.
The law will enter into force 10 days after its official publication.
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
