UN Expert on violence against women undertakes first visit to Kyrgyzstan

GENEVA / BISHKEK (6 November 2009) -- The Special Rapporteur on violence against women, its causes and consequences, Ms. Rashida Manjoo, will visit Kyrgyzstan from 8 to 17 November 2009, in what is the first mission to the country by a UN independent expert monitoring violence against women.

 

“During my ten-day mission, I will investigate and report on the issue of violence against women in the country, as well as the major challenges to eradicate this form of violence and ensure women’s full enjoyment of their human rights,” said Ms. Manjoo, who will visit Kyrgyzstan at the invitation of the Government.

 

“I will conduct my mission with a view to identify key forms of violence against women, and contribute to efforts to effectively address such problems,” stressed the human rights expert.

 

The Special Rapporteur will travel to Bishkek and to Osh to hold discussions with government representatives, women survivors of violence, and civil society groups on violence against women and women’s rights in the Kyrgyz Republic.

A press conference will be held in Bishkek at the conclusion of the Special Rapporteur’s visit, on Monday 16 November, with additional information to follow. Ms. Manjoo will present the findings of the visit in a forthcoming session of the Human Rights Council.

 

Ms. Rashida Manjoo (South Africa) was appointed by the United Nations Human Rights Council for an initial period of three years at the 11th session of the Human Rights Council in June 2009. As Special Rapporteur, she is independent from any government or organization and serves in her individual capacity.