Gender Equality and Social Inclusion in Municipal Waste Management

The Swiss-funded project “Public Service Improvement”, implemented by Helvetas Kyrgyzstan and the Development Policy Institute, held a roundtable discussion in Bishkek dedicated to the analysis of gender equality and social inclusion in the municipal waste management system. The event brought together representatives of state bodies, local self-governments, municipal enterprises, development partners, and gender experts.

The discussion was opened by Asel Mambetova, Project Manager of Public Service Improvement, who highlighted the importance of integrating gender perspectives into public service delivery. Lidia Budisa, the project’s advisor, emphasized that sustainable waste management must account for the needs and capacities of all community members, including women and vulnerable groups.

The main presentation was delivered by Aisuluu Kamchybekova, the project’s Gender and Social Inclusion Specialist, who presented findings from a detailed gender analysis conducted between February and August 2025 in Jalal-Abad and Talas regions. The study revealed that while women play a key role in waste collection and recycling, they remain underrepresented in decision-making and management positions. It also underscored the need for systemic changes, including gender-sensitive policies, incentives for sorting and recycling, and support for women-led green enterprises.

Participants shared their experiences, including Gulaim Seitkazieva, director of the municipal enterprise, who spoke about the challenges and opportunities faced by women leaders in the waste management sector. The event concluded with a discussion on practical recommendations for local governments, such as promoting fair employment policies, improving access to economic opportunities, and fostering inclusive community engagement in environmental initiatives.

This roundtable marked another important step by the Public Service Improvement project toward building equitable, sustainable, and inclusive local services that benefit all members of society.