Press Statement
Intimidation of Civil Society in Kyrgyzstan

The United States Government strongly condemns the April 12 attack on human rights activist and NGO leader Edil Baisalov.  Our sympathy goes out to Mr. Baisalov and his family.  On April 13, U.S. Ambassador Marie Yovanovitch visited Mr. Baisalov in the hospital to express her support.
 
This cowardly act was not only an assault on an individual, but also an assault on civil society and on the principle of freedom of speech.  We view this attack as a serious escalation of the troubling political violence that has occurred in Kyrgyzstan over the past year.  Kyrgyzstan is unique among its neighbors for its vibrant civil society, and it is to the government's credit that civil society has been allowed to flourish.  This attack is a stark reminder that civil society must be protected.

Mr. Baisalov is outspoken in his criticism of organized crime in Kyrgyzstan.  We urge the Kyrgyz Government to take a stand on combating organized crime and upholding the rule of law.  We further urge the Kyrgyz government to vigorously investigate this crime and provide security to Mr. Baisalov and others who may be at risk.