Strengthening Voice and Accountability in Kyrgyzstan

Project completed

The project intends to develop capacities of Local Self Governments to provide better public services and adequately respond to the needs of citizens, during a period in which decentralisation is high priority on the Kyrgyz agenda. In line with the Government’ decentralization strategy, the project will ensure policy dialogue on all levels to facilitate the adequate delegation of power and secure financing of Local Self Governments. By developing capacities and providing trainings the project will contribute to the empowerment of rural communities and LSGs.

Country/region Topic Period Budget
Kyrgyzstan
Governance
Rule of Law - Democracy - Human rights
Decentralisation
15.02.2011 - 31.03.2015
CHF  3’410’000
Background

Despite the political instability, a new constitution was approved in 2010, which included the move toward a parliamentarian democracy. The 2012 Kyrgyz Government announced its intention to invest in the development of the regions through strengthening Local Self Governments (LSGs) and implement full fiscal decentralisation. In 2006 a solid law to support the decentralisation process was adopted. However, political resistances hindered the implementation, until in 2012 a new budget system (exclusion of the Rayon level) was introduced, which foresees additional income (and additional tasks and services) for LSGs.

Objectives

The overall goal is to improve accountability and transparency in public service delivery through increased citizen’s participation and a more efficient use of resources, leading to improved qualiy of services to the population.

Target groups

800’000 rural population in IssyKul and Jalalabad Oblasts - Employees of 131 Local Self Government - Aiyl Kenesh deputies (local councils) - Central and Rayon Government.

Medium-term outcomes
  • Local communities are participating in public service management
  • LSG’s governing and managing capacity improved to respond citizens’ needs
  • Improved legislation to enhance proper decentralization process
Directorate/federal office responsible SDC
Credit area Swiss cooperation with Eastern Europe
Project partners Contract partner
International or foreign NGO
  • Development Policy Institute, Kyrgyzstan


Budget Current phase Swiss budget CHF    3’410’000 Swiss disbursement to date CHF    3’303’538
Project phases Phase 2 01.04.2015 - 31.08.2020   (Completed)

Phase 1 15.02.2011 - 31.03.2015   (Completed)