Bishkek, June 02, 2026. /Kabar/. Kyrgyzstan will now become one of 29 countries in the world providing universal child benefits, UNICEF Representative in Kyrgyzstan Samman Thapa told at press conference in Bishkek.
According to him, the National Development Program of Kyrgyzstan until 2030 is based on a simple but very important truth: investment in children is investment in the future.
"Today, Kyrgyzstan is at unique historical moment. More than half of the country's population is under the age of 30. This represents a great opportunity to build a strong workforce, a vibrant economy, and a strong state. But this potential can only be realized when children and youth are healthy, educated, and equipped with the skills they need to succeed," said Samman Thapa, emphasizing the importance of investing in human capital.
He added that these investments are urgently needed, as nearly 40 percent of children under the age of 3 in Kyrgyzstan still live in poverty.
According to a UNICEF representative, the "Bala Irysy"(Child benefit) program is a major step forward in expanding social protection through a government-funded universal child benefit. This initiative will help reduce poverty among children under the age of 3 by a quarter, while strengthening the foundation for children's future growth, education, and development.