Kyrgyzstan lawmakers call MSEC system 'most corrupt'
Translated from Russian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Kyrgyz lawmakers have labeled the medico-social expert commission (MSEC) system as one of the most corrupt and bureaucratic structures in the country.
- Deputies cited citizen complaints of extortion, with one woman alleging she was asked for money to process documents.
- The Ministry of Labor stated it would investigate the claims, while acknowledging digitalization efforts to reduce corruption risks.
Members of Kyrgyzstan's parliament have declared the medico-social expert commission (MSEC) system to be among the most problematic and corruption-prone structures in the nation. During a committee meeting on labor, health, and social affairs, deputies heard reports on the Republican Center for Medico-Social Expertise.
MSEC has become one of the most corrupt and bureaucratic structures.
Ulukbek Karybek uulu, a deputy and initiator of the hearings, highlighted the frequent complaints received by parliament regarding MSEC operations. "MSEC has become one of the most corrupt and bureaucratic structures," he stated, calling for a radical reform of the system and enhanced protection of citizens' rights. He shared an audio recording of a woman alleging extortion at Bishkek's second MSEC, where she claimed officials refused to process her documents until she paid a bribe.
The woman recounted being told, "You'll process it when you have the money." After paying 5,000 Kyrgyz som, her documents were finally issued. She described three individuals in the office dividing the money, with a portion also going to the chairman. She offered 2,000 som, but it was deemed insufficient.
You'll process it when you have the money.
Aida Isatbek kyzy, the deputy minister of labor, social security, and migration, assured that an investigation would be conducted into the alleged incidents. She noted that the MSEC system is integrated with medical institutions and has been digitized through "Sanarip Clinic" to mitigate corruption risks. However, deputies pointed out that despite digitalization, systemic issues persist.
I offered 2,000 som, but they replied that it was not enough, as the chairman also receives a share.
Lawmakers also raised concerns about the inadequacy of disability benefits, which they believe remain insufficient. According to Isatbek kyzy, the MSEC system comprises one national center and 27 regional commissions. Approximately 3% of Kyrgyzstan's population has a disability. As of May 1, 2026, 88,184 individuals, including over 35,000 children, receive disability benefits. The primary causes for newly established disabilities include circulatory system diseases, neoplasms, injuries, and mental disorders, while in children, they are mainly mental disorders, congenital developmental defects, and nervous system diseases.
As it turned out, they take money from absolutely everyone.
Originally published by 24.kg in Russian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.