Kyrgyz MP: Climate change and declining trust in authorities are serious challenges

At the World Assembly of Local and Regional Governments held within the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, Elnura Duyshekeeva, Kyrgyzstan MP from Bishkek City, highlighted the pressing challenges of climate change and the decline in citizens' trust in authorities, Report informs.

She stressed that the main responsibility for solving these problems lies with local and regional governments: "Cities are the ones that hear people's daily needs most closely and are accountable for the quality of decisions made. Today, municipalities can no longer remain mere executors of decisions. They must become full participants in global dialogue, partners in shaping a sustainable future, and contributors to new models of multi‑level governance."

Duyshekeeva noted that Kyrgyzstan is implementing initiatives aimed at improving citizens' quality of life, including affordable housing development, modernization of urban infrastructure, digitalization of state and municipal services, support for regions, and greater transparency in budget processes.

She emphasized that sustainable development requires attention to ecological safety, expanded access to social services, and stronger cooperation between state and local authorities.

The MP also underscored the importance of women's and youth participation in governance and decision‑making: "Without inclusivity and broad public involvement, sustainable development is impossible. International cooperation, exchange of experience, and joint search for practical solutions among cities and regions are crucial. Today, local authorities must be not only executors of decisions but also active participants in global development processes. Strong cities and strong regions are the foundation of a sustainable state and a stable world."