One in four employers in Kyrgyzstan does not recruit young people, according to data from the Ministry of Labour and the World Bank

Around 24.5% of companies in Kyrgyzstan do not yet use specific strategies to attract young professionals. These figures are cited in an analytical report by the Ministry of Labour, prepared as part of a World Bank project.

Despite the shortage of young workers, employers in Bishkek and the Talas region are taking a more proactive approach to working with young people. There, internships, work placements and opportunities for professional development are offered more frequently.

Nationwide, internships and work placements remain the most common tool, used by between 27.7% and 40.7% of companies. However, in the Chui region, this figure is significantly lower, at 15.2%. In addition, employers offer flexible working hours and on-the-job training, participate in job fairs and collaborate with employment centres.

It is noted that some recruitment still takes place through informal connections, which limits young people’s access to transparent employment opportunities.

At the same time, interest in developing young employees is gradually growing. Such opportunities are provided by 25.4% of employers in Bishkek and over 22% in the Talas and Chui regions.

To support young people, the ‘Youth Internship’ programme is being implemented. It enables citizens aged between 16 and 35 to gain their first work experience. The programme is already operational in 30 pilot cities and districts; participants receive a stipend and have the opportunity for further employment.