UNICEF Statement on the approval of the Child Code by the Kyrgyz Parliament

“UNICEF welcomes the adoption of the new version of the Child Code and its supporting legislative bills by the Parliament of the Kyrgyz Republic during its session yesterday 29 July 2021. This new legislation marks a major milestone in fulfilling the commitment of the State towards the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

“The new Child Code is the first legal document to ban corporal punishment of children in all settings; strengthens case management for vulnerable children and families and puts in place social services at the local level as key provisions for a solid child protection system. It also ensures the rights to social protection for children left without parental care; provides a stronger legal framework to protect children of migrants and the most vulnerable children.

“UNICEF acknowledges the hard work of the Parliamentary Committees and experts in the development of the new Child Code and the additional package of legislation, which was initiated by the Members of Parliament in 2017.

“By adopting the Child Code, the country re-confirms its commitment to ensure the protection of children’s rights and enhance the best interest of children in line with the Convention on the Rights of the Child.”

“The new version of the Child Code in line with recommendations of Presidential Decree no. 4 from last January 29 2021, which focused on strengthening the protection of children, reinforced the role of parents and family in caring for children and in particular recommended more effective guarantees of State protection for migrant children.

UNICEF stands ready to further support the Parliament and the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic in implementing the Child Code for ensuring the best interest of children in the country.”