Since the 2021 constitutional referendum returned Kyrgyzstan to a stronger presidential system, power has become increasingly centralised in the executive, reversing the post-2010 parliamentary experiment and narrowing space for pluralistic politics. This marks a clear departure from Kyrgyzstan’s earlier reputation as an “Island of Democracy” and has reduced institutional checks while encouraging a more managed political environment.

Political consolidation culminated in the snap parliamentary election of 30 November 2025, held after the legislature self-dissolved. International observers noted that the vote was efficiently administered, but warned that the campaign took place in a restrictive environment, with legal and administrative changes limiting meaningful competition and constraining opposition activity. Voter turnout remained low compared with historical averages.

Economic performance was comparatively resilient in 2024 and 2025, with strong growth, stabilising inflation and an improved fiscal position. However, medium-term risks remain, including external shocks, limited policy buffers, dependence on remittances, a narrow export base and structural constraints on private investment.

In March 2025, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan signed a long-awaited border agreement to resolve their deadly, long-running dispute and prevent future clashes. In October 2025, a draft constitutional amendment proposing the reintroduction of the death penalty was made public, but the Constitutional Court later ruled it incompatible with the Constitution and Kyrgyzstan’s international obligations. Together, these developments shaped the environment in which civil society, media and public institutions operated.