Kyrgyz lawmaker calls for stronger municipal role in global discussions

At the World Assembly of Local and Regional Governments convened within the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum 13 in Baku, Elnura Duyshekeeva, Kyrgyzstan MP from Bishkek City, drew attention to the growing impact of climate change and the erosion of public confidence in governing institutions.

She underlined that responsibility for addressing these challenges primarily rests with local and regional authorities: "Cities are the ones that hear people's daily needs most closely and are accountable for the quality of decisions made. Today, municipalities can no longer remain mere executors of decisions. They must become full participants in global dialogue, partners in shaping a sustainable future, and contributors to new models of multi-level governance."

Duyshekeeva stated that Kyrgyzstan is advancing a range of measures aimed at enhancing living standards, including the expansion of affordable housing, upgrading of urban infrastructure, digital transformation of public services at state and municipal levels, regional support mechanisms, and improved transparency in public finance management.

She further highlighted that sustainable development depends on environmental security, broader access to essential social services, and stronger coordination between national and local governance structures.

The MP also stressed the critical role of women and youth in leadership and decision-making processes: "Without inclusivity and broad public involvement, sustainable development is impossible. International cooperation, exchange of experience, and joint search for practical solutions among cities and regions are crucial. Today, local authorities must be not only executors of decisions but also active participants in global development processes. Strong cities and strong regions are the foundation of a sustainable state and a stable world."

By Jeyhun Aghazada