Kyrgyzstan Bans Pornography and Tightens Control Over Internet Access
Kyrgyzstan bans pornography and introduced new laws to control internet traffic. President Sadyr Japarov signed the legislation this week, according to a statement from his office.
The government says the pornography ban is meant to protect “moral and ethical values” in Kyrgyzstan. The country, home to around 7 million people, is majority Muslim and became independent from the Soviet Union in 1991.
Government Expands Online Oversight
Under the new laws, internet providers must block websites flagged by the Ministry of Culture. Companies that do not comply will face financial penalties. These measures mark a significant increase in state control over digital content and services.
President Japarov, a nationalist leader who came to power through protests in 2020, has focused on defending what he calls traditional Kyrgyz values. Critics, however, argue that his leadership has led to tighter restrictions on the press and opposition groups.
The latest actions add to growing concerns about digital freedom in a country once considered the most democratic in Central Asia.
State Monopoly Over International Internet Traffic
In a separate move, Japarov also signed a decree that gives the state complete control over international internet access. From 15 August, only the state-owned telecom company ElCat will be allowed to provide international internet services during a one-year trial period.
Other telecom operators in Kyrgyzstan have two months to transfer their contracts for international bandwidth to ElCat. This change aims to centralise internet access under government oversight.
Political analyst Emil Juraev, based in Bishkek, noted that the decision reduces market freedom in favour of more government control. The timing also raises questions, as Kyrgyzstan approaches important elections in 2026 and 2027. Japarov has signalled plans to run for another term.
with inputs from Reuters
