Kyrgyz Government Clarifies Position on Russian Language Status

Kyrgyz authorities have addressed recent concerns over potential changes to the status of the Russian language, Orda.kz reports.

The clarification comes after Melis Murataliev, head of the National Commission on the State Language, suggested that some legislative norms related to language policy were outdated and needed revision. This sparked speculation that the status of the Russian language might be reconsidered.

However, Deputy Prime Minister Edil Baisalov firmly denied these claims.

There were some tough discussions, but there are no plans to revise the status of the Russian language. It is enshrined in the Constitution. Melis Murataliev misspoke, and his words were taken out of context. There is no intent to change the official language status,Kaktus Media quotes Edil Baisalov as saying. 

The debate also touched on a controversial proposal to fine citizens for not knowing the Kyrgyz language. Deputy Balbak Tulobaev criticized this initiative.

We have around half a million Russian-speaking schoolchildren. What happens if their parents are fined? That would only lead to social tension. Let’s first provide children with a basic program. Exams can be introduced later, in grades 9 or 11. Jogorku Kenesh, the Ministry of Education, and the government are all working on this, Vecherniy Bishkek quoted the Deputy.

Deputy Gulya Kozhokulova also opposed punitive measures, emphasizing a more balanced approach:

No one is against promoting the state language. But forcing people and imposing fines is fundamentally wrong. We live in the 21st century and must approach these issues thoughtfully and delicately, taking into account everyone's interests.

Kozhokulova also criticized the state’s weak policies regarding the promotion of the Kyrgyz language.

I’m disappointed by how weak the state’s policy is in this area. We don’t seem to realize that our children are our future.

Original Author: Zhadra Zhulmukhametova