New research reveals four in ten women who experience violence in Kyrgyzstan avoid asking for help

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Since November 2024, Footage Foundation (Footage) funded by the U.S. Embassy in the Kyrgyz Republic, has been working with El Agartuu Public Association on a collaborative program to prevent and end intersectional violence across Kyrgyzstan.

The first phase of the program was to conduct a needs assessment by consulting with government employees, non-governmental organization (NGO) employees and survivors/victims of violence. From December 2024 through January 2025, 108 people responded to the research.

Footage and El Agartuu presented initial findings and insights at a webinar on June 17th, 2025. Key findings revealed that 73% of victims of violence suffer with poor mental health and seek counselling, while 44% reported that they avoid seeking help due to fear, stigma, or mistrust of authorities. Meanwhile, nearly 70% of government staff reported they’ve never received formal training on gender-based violence.

The webinar provided an opportunity for discussion on how to build alliances and implement solutions that address the social and economic impact of intersectional violence.

“In our Kyrgyzstan assessments, many stakeholders highlighted the need for stronger training, clearer information pathways, and deeper collaboration. Survivors emphasized the importance of knowing their rights and accessing safe, supportive services. These insights point to an opportunity: when we invest in awareness, build professional capacity, and create spaces of trust and connection, we begin to shift the conditions that allow violence to take root,” says Dr. Kristen Ali Eglinton, Co-founder and Executive Director of Footage Foundation who designed and led the research.

Needs identified include training and capacity building for government staff, more formal and better supported collaboration across NGO networks, awareness of cultural barriers that cause fear and mistrust, improved co-ordination across institutions and services and, better support for survivors for safe housing and income generation.

Nurzhan Tulegabylova of Kyrgyz El Agartuu Public Association commented: “These findings point to the need for sustained community education and efforts to shift harmful norms. They are not isolated. They reflect larger patterns found across Central Asia and beyond. Prevention is not an abstract goal—it is a shared and achievable commitment voiced by survivors, NGOs, and government partners alike.

“This first phase of the program is a positive step forward towards enhancing skills and strengthening our commitment to driving change. We welcome those interested in helping to shape solutions to join the discussion.”

To learn more about Footage’s work to address intersectional violence and implement programs that impact policy and social justice, please contact info@footageproject.org

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