Kyrgyzstan’s parliament has approved a bill to incorporate the concept of “women’s entrepreneurship” into its Law on the Protection of Entrepreneurs’ Rights. Proposed by six deputies, the legislation seeks to identify women entrepreneurs as a distinct category within small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs), aiming to drive economic growth and reduce gender disparities.
In 2020, only 43% of working-age women were employed, compared to 70.9% of men, with many women in rural areas or unpaid household roles. The bill promises expanded access to state support for women-led businesses, enhancing economic participation and contributing to social cohesion.
This move sets Kyrgyzstan apart globally, as few countries explicitly define women’s entrepreneurship in law. For instance, Uzbekistan and Russia lack such definitions, while the United States offers support programs without legally codifying the term. Kyrgyzstan’s initiative could serve as a model for fostering gender-inclusive economic policies worldwide.
