Kyrgyzstan: Teenagers forced to work 12-hour shifts at Karakol cafes

Authorities in Karakol, Kyrgyzstan, have uncovered significant labor rights violations affecting teenage workers at several local cafes. An investigation by the authorized representative of the ombudsman for the Issyk-Kul region revealed that minors were employed as waiters and musicians, often working grueling 12-hour shifts.

The monitoring process, which included reviewing employment contracts, interviewing teenagers, and conducting anonymous surveys, highlighted widespread non-compliance with labor laws. Many underage employees were found to be working without formal employment contracts or the required written consent from their parents or legal guardians. Furthermore, these young workers reported facing arbitrary fines for issues such as broken dishes or lateness, with deductions made from their wages.

A critical breach of the Labor Code of the Kyrgyz Republic was identified regarding working hours. The law stipulates that individuals aged 14 to 16 can work a maximum of five hours per day, while those aged 16 to 18 are limited to seven hours. However, the investigated teenagers were working from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, significantly exceeding legal limits. The law also requires work to be light, not harmful to health, and performed during free time from studies, with parental consent mandatory from age 14.

Representatives from the ombudsman's institute informed the teenagers about their labor rights and the conditions that must be met for their employment. Employers were also reminded of legal requirements and the necessity of respecting the rights of their minor employees. The institute is calling on state bodies to intensify their efforts to prevent violations of the labor rights of underage individuals.

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Teenagers worked from 10:00 to 22:00.