Country Profile: Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan, a landlocked nation in Central Asia, is characterized by its stunning mountainous landscapes and rich nomadic traditions. With a population of approximately 6.2 million, the country has a diverse ethnic makeup, primarily composed of Kyrgyz, Uzbeks, and Russians. The economy is bolstered by natural resources, particularly hydropower and gold, although challenges such as corruption and political instability hinder investment. Since gaining independence in 1991, Kyrgyzstan has transitioned through various forms of governance, currently operating as a parliamentary republic.

Geography

Kyrgyzstan is situated in Central Asia, bordered by China to the east, Kazakhstan to the north, Tajikistan to the south, and Uzbekistan to the west. It has a total area of 199,951 sq km, predominantly mountainous, with the Tien Shan range covering much of the territory. As a landlocked country, it has no coastline and is characterized by a dry continental climate in high regions and subtropical climates in the southwest.

Highest Point: Jengish Chokusu at 7,439 m
Major Lakes: Ozero Issyk-Kul, 6,240 sq km, second largest saline lake after the Caspian Sea
Natural Resources: Rich in hydropower, gold, and rare earth metals
Population Distribution: Mainly rural, with the highest density around Bishkek
Natural Hazards: Prone to major flooding and earthquakes

People and Society

Kyrgyzstan has an estimated population of 6,172,101 as of 2024, with a median age of 28.3 years. The population is predominantly Kyrgyz (73.8%), followed by Uzbeks (14.8%) and Russians (5.1%). The majority of citizens adhere to Islam (90%), with a small Christian minority. Urbanization is on the rise, with approximately 37.8% of the population living in urban areas.

Birth Rate: 18.7 births per 1,000 population (2024)
Life Expectancy: 72.9 years (2024)
Net Migration Rate: -4.8 migrants per 1,000 (2024)
Literacy Rates: Education expenditure stands at 6.8% of GDP (2023)
Population Growth Rate: 0.79% (2024)

Economy

Kyrgyzstan's economy is classified as lower-middle-income, primarily reliant on agriculture, services, and a growing tourism sector. The GDP is projected at $50.907 billion (PPP) in 2024, with a significant contribution from remittances, which accounted for 18.8% of GDP in 2023. Corruption poses a challenge to economic growth, particularly in attracting foreign investments.

GDP per Capita: $7,000 (2024)
Unemployment Rate: 3.3% (2024)
Poverty Rate: 33.3% below national poverty line (2021)
Top Agricultural Products: Milk, potatoes, maize, and wheat
Public Debt: 40.5% of GDP (2023)

Government

Kyrgyzstan operates as a parliamentary republic with a president serving as both the head of state and government. The most recent presidential election was held in January 2021, leading to Sadyr Japarov's presidency, amid a backdrop of significant political upheaval. The country has undergone several constitutional changes, the latest in 2021, which consolidated presidential powers.

Capital: Bishkek
Administrative Divisions: 7 provinces and 2 cities
Suffrage: Universal at 18 years of age
Legislative Body: Supreme Council with 90 members
National Holiday: Independence Day on 31 August

Military and Security

Kyrgyzstan maintains a modest military force that includes land and air units, alongside a National Guard for internal security. The country spends about 3% of its GDP on military expenditures, focusing on national sovereignty and counterterrorism efforts. It cooperates closely with Russia for military training and equipment.

Active Military Personnel: Estimated 10-15,000
Military Service Obligation: 12 months for men aged 18-27
Military Equipment: Predominantly Russian and Soviet-era technology
Regional Security Relationships: Member of the CSTO since 1994
Terrorism Risks: Presence of groups like the Islamic Jihad Union in border areas

Energy

Kyrgyzstan's energy sector is heavily reliant on hydropower, contributing to 85.7% of the total installed capacity. The country has made strides toward electrification, achieving 99.7% access for the total population. However, it still imports a large portion of its energy needs.

Electricity Consumption: 14.872 billion kWh (2023)
Installed Capacity: 3.944 million kW (2023)
Hydroelectric Generation: Represents the majority of energy production
Coal Production: 3.685 million metric tons (2023)
Natural Gas Consumption: 435.336 million cubic meters (2023)

Environment

Kyrgyzstan faces environmental challenges such as water pollution and soil salinity due to agricultural practices. The country participates in multiple international environmental agreements focused on climate change and biodiversity.

Forest Coverage: 6.5% of total land area (2023)
Carbon Dioxide Emissions: 11.389 million metric tonnes (2023)
Renewable Water Resources: 23.618 billion cubic meters (2022)
Municipal Solid Waste Generation: 1.113 million tons (2024)
Irrigated Land: 10,041 sq km (2022)

Transportation

Kyrgyzstan has a developing transportation infrastructure, including an expanding network of roads, railways, and airports. The capital city, Bishkek, serves as a key hub connecting various regions.

Total Railways: 424 km (2022)
Airports: 28 as of 2025
Civil Aircraft Registration Prefix: EX
Heliports: 1 (2025)
Road Network: Extensive, primarily unpaved in rural areas

Communications

Kyrgyzstan has a growing communications sector, with a high rate of internet penetration and mobile subscriptions. Approximately 89% of the population uses the internet.

Mobile Subscriptions: 7.68 million (2023)
Broadband Fixed Subscriptions: 456,000 (2023)
Telephones - Fixed Lines: 185,000 (2023)
Telephones - Mobile Cellular: 130 subscriptions per 100 inhabitants (2021)
Broadcast Media: Includes state-funded and private channels with increasing local content efforts

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	6,172,101	2024 estimate
Area	199,951 sq km
GDP (PPP)	$50.907 billion	2024 estimate
Energy Consumption	14.872 billion kWh	2023
Birth Rate	18.7 births/1,000	2024
Unemployment Rate	3.3%	2024 estimate
Life Expectancy	72.9 years	2024 estimate
Carbon Dioxide Emissions	11.389 million metric tonnes	2023
Literacy Rate	90.8% improved drinking water access	2022 estimate
Total Fertility Rate	2.45 children born/woman	2024 estimate