Gulnara Djurabaeva

Gulnara Djurabaeva is a public figure, human rights defender, and election expert who has made a significant contribution to the development of civil society in Kyrgyzstan. For many years, she has worked to ensure transparency and legality in the conduct of elections and referenda. She previously served as a member of the Central Commission for Elections and Referenda of the Kyrgyz Republic. Djurabaeva has actively promoted the strengthening of democratic institutions and the participation of citizens in political processes. Djurabaeva’s public opposition to the decision to transfer the Kempir-Abad reservoir to Uzbekistan is regarded as a key reason for her political persecution. The Kempir-Abad case began in October 2022 following protests against the Kyrgyz-Uzbek border delimitation and demarcation agreement. The authorities justified transferring the territory of the Kempir-Abad reservoir to Uzbekistan as necessary for clarifying the border and strengthening regional security. However, the opposition and civil society considered this move a threat to Kyrgyzstan’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. In June 2024, the Pervomaisky District Court of Bishkek acquitted part of the defendants, including Gulnara Djurabaeva. However, the case remains under appeal in the second instance.

Gulnara Djurabaeva Public figure, human rights defender, and election expert who has made a significant contribution to the development of civil society in Kyrgyzstan. For many years, she has worked to ensure transparency and legality in the conduct of elections and referenda. She previously served as a member of the Central Commission for Elections and Referenda of the Kyrgyz Republic. Djurabaeva has actively promoted the strengthening of democratic institutions and the participation of citizens in political processes.