Kyrgyzstan in the Quarantine and State of Emergency Period

The outbreak of the new coronavirus has made great adjustments in the lives of a huge number of people who, for their own safety, have to stay in conditions of self-isolation in their own homes. Many countries are quarantined due to the spread of infection. Kyrgyzstan was no exception. The state of emergency was introduced in the cities and regions of Kyrgyzstan from March 25 to May 11. The state of emergency and curfew operated on the territory of Bishkek, Osh and Jalal-Abad, Nookat and Kara-Suy districts of Osh region, Suzak district of Jalal-Abad region. Roadblocks were established, dividing urban areas and villages. Public life was paralyzed, public transport and even taxis did not function.
People found themselves in a quandary. Moreover, according to the latest orders of the authorities, it was prohibited to be visiting relatives, acquaintances, neighbours, gathering in groups of more than three people (with the exception of family members), visiting shops and pharmacies that were further than 1.5 kilometres from home, using personal transport without special need.
Not every village has small wholesale stores with reasonable prices; many people have run out of cash. A part of large families lived thanks to one-day earnings, and they were left without a livelihood. The elderly do not have the opportunity to go to the store on their own.

The “Progress” Union of Entrepreneurs of the Public Association of Koreans in Kyrgyzstan always provides assistance in difficult times to those who are in need, holding campaigns to support vulnerable groups of population. Indeed, due to quarantine, many families found themselves in difficult life situations. Those in need received help in the form of food essentials. The members of the “Progress” had lists of those in need, to whom assistance was provided. Information was also received from social services, volunteer and other organizations and individuals. Due to the fact that roads were blocked and roadblocks were established, there were difficulties with moving around and holding the campaign. But, despite this, the campaign participants did everything possible to provide assistance to those in need. In a few days, we managed to cover more than a hundred addresses.
We tried to help people who find themselves in a difficult situation, regardless of their nationality. When carrying out large charity events, we invite the Bishkek Forum club to take part. Responsive businessmen always respond to requests and support our good intentions. Now we are observing the situation, and if the quarantine is extended, we will try to provide humanitarian assistance again and do it as precisely as possible, that is, for those who really need it.
This campaign is not a one-time event and will continue, as the main mission of the club is charity.

Yuriy Kim,
Correspondent of the "Progress" Union of Entrepreneurs,
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan