Combatting tobacco industry tactics in Kyrgyzstan using the power of Women’s Councils

The WHO published a country case study on the pivotal role played by Ms. Ainuru Altybaeva, chair of ‘Ayaldar Keneshy’ (Women’s Councils), in combating tobacco industry tactics in Kyrgyzstan. During the development of law No. 121, a robust tobacco control law, Ms. Altybaeva encountered unprecedented resistance from the tobacco industry, which launched a smear campaign against those who promoted the draft law.

After three years of intense debate, Law No. 121 was adopted on 15 September 2021, marking a significant victory for tobacco control in Kyrgyzstan. However, the Women’s Councils’ efforts continue as they persist in raising public awareness and promoting health initiatives.

Read the case study here.