After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the new authorities of the independent states sought to continue the policy of social protection and support of the population that had been pursued during the Soviet era. Social issues became a priority in Kyrgyzstan's policy, and despite the difficulties of that time, the state tried to fulfill its social obligations.
However, unfortunately, over 30 years, due to the mistakes of the previous authorities, corruption, bribery and organized crime increased in the country, thus, the solution of social problems was in the last place. Wages, pensions and allowances were not only not increased, but were often not paid on time, and sometimes goods were given instead of money. The standard of living of pensioners, teachers and doctors dropped significantly. In order to maintain their positions in the elections, the authorities used administrative resources, promoting parties under their control. As a result, the political situation in the country escalated, and during these years the authorities were overthrown three times.
To date, the situation in Kyrgyzstan has changed significantly - these changes can be called colossal. Social issues remain one of the priorities of the state policy. However, now we see how salaries, pensions and allowances are increasing at a rapid pace. Salaries of teachers, doctors and military personnel have increased by 100%, and the state even pays compensation to some categories of citizens.
For example, since the beginning of 2021, the salaries of family and general practicing doctors have increased by 100%, and for the other categories of medical workers - by 50%. In September 2024, another increase took place: doctors' salaries were increased by 50%, nurses' salaries by 20%, nursing staff and ambulance drivers' salaries by 10%.
The average salary of teachers is now about KGS 26,400 (about USD 300). The highest salaries are received by teachers with extensive experience and workload, working in high mountainous and remote areas. In addition, teachers who have successfully passed certification receive a monthly supplement of KGS 5,000 (USD 57).
Salaries of the military range from KGS 60,000 to 80,000 (USD 914), quadrupled. Residential houses are being built for military personnel serving at remote border outposts, and their living conditions have improved significantly. In addition, the Kyrgyz army is being strengthened with modern military equipment.
President Sadyr Zhaparov himself has said that pensions were previously raised by KGS 200-300 (USD 3).
“Now we raise pensions across the country by an average of KGS 1,700-3,400 (USD 38). We realize that even this is not enough, but we are doing everything possible to improve the living conditions of our citizens.”
From Oct. 1, 2024, the minimum size of the pension with allowances is not less than KGS 6,900 (USD 78).
In three years, more than 4,000 families have received mortgage housing under the My House 2021-2026 program. A total of 590 apartment buildings with 40,330 apartments are being built across the country. Housing is being built not only in the capital, but also in the regions, which helps to reduce internal migration and improve the housing conditions of the population.
In recent years, special attention has been paid to the construction of social facilities. In 2024 alone, 230 facilities have been built, including schools, kindergartens, medical facilities, sports complexes, cultural centers and water supply facilities.
The state also actively supports culture, science and education. Salaries of cultural workers have been increased by 70-100%, and creative unions have received KGS 10 to 15 million for national projects. Musical instruments worth about KGS 200 million have been purchased for theaters, concert halls and houses of culture.
Special attention is paid to talented children from low-income families. For example, the Akylman Lyceum was opened in Cholpon-Ata, providing free accommodation, meals and quality education for schoolchildren from socially vulnerable categories. In 2024, a new Altyn Kazyk educational program was proposed, aimed at preparing children for global labor markets and forming competitive specialists.
The scientific sector is also undergoing positive changes. The building of the National Academy of Sciences has been extensively renovated and the salaries of scientific staff have been increased by 100%.
Academician Cholponkul Arabaev said that many changes that have occurred over the past three years are directly related to the activities of President Sadyr Zhaparov.
“In a short period of time what was not possible for 30 years was done. Economic growth, raising pensions, benefits and salaries, building roads and social institutions - all of this was possible thanks to the political will and efforts of the head of state,” he noted.
Today Kyrgyzstan is becoming not only a strong economic manager, but also a state that cares about its citizens, creating decent conditions for life, work, education and cultural development.