OSCE Centre in Bishkek supports children’s theatre performance to mark International Day of Human Rights

BISHKEK, 6 December 2016 – On the occasion of the International Day of Human Rights, the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, in co-operation with the Ombudsman of Kyrgyzstan, supported the production of a theatre play, I Have a Right! for children from social care homes in the Bishkek and Chui provinces.

The performance was staged in order to raise awareness among the younger generation about human rights, and the need to fight against violation of the rights and freedoms stipulated by the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The play focused on issues such as violence against minors and the inhuman and degrading treatment and punishment of children. Also highlighted was the scourge of child labour and exploitation, and the limited access of children to quality education and health services.  

“Not only is this performance a product of fruitful co-operation between the Office of Ombudsman and the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, but it is also a joint effort undertaken by the state institutions, civil society and international organizations active in the field of promoting and protecting human rights in Kyrgyzstan,” said Valeriu Chiveri, Deputy Head of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek. “Every individual step that we take strengthens the entire system that guarantees the respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.”

Kubatbek Otorbaev, the Ombudsman of the Kyrgyz Republic, underlined: “10 December is globally celebrated as the International Day of Human Rights. Every person is entitled to a variety of rights. Those are outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.  Every state ensures respect for rights of their citizens. This is why the Office of the Ombudsman was created – to exercise oversight over respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.” He also congratulated the audience on the occasion of the International Day of Human Rights and wished everyone good health, outstanding victories and success in all future endeavors.

The event is part of the OSCE Centre’s project on promoting a comprehensive approach to the rule of law, administration of justice, prevention of torture, and providing capacity building in these areas.