INTERNATIONAL – Kyrgyzstan is embarking on a significant cultural initiative to replace its national anthem, aiming to shed remnants of its Soviet past and embrace a symbol that resonates with its contemporary identity. This move is part of a broader effort to reinforce national pride and unity among its citizens.
The current anthem, adopted in 1992 following Kyrgyzstan’s independence from the Soviet Union, has been deemed by officials as outdated and not fully representative of the nation’s evolution. President Sadyr Japarov emphasized the need for an anthem that encapsulates the country’s rich history and aspirations, questioning the relevance of celebrating newfound independence decades later .
To facilitate this transition, the Ministry of Culture, Information, Sports, and Youth Policy announced a nationwide competition on February 7, 2025, inviting submissions for new lyrics and compositions. The contest has garnered significant interest, with 564 entries received from 388 individuals, including international participants .
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The selection process is overseen by an interdepartmental commission comprising parliament members, cultural figures, and linguistic experts. Their mandate is to shortlist three versions of the anthem, ensuring they align with Kyrgyz cultural values and linguistic standards, before presenting them to the Jogorku Kenesh (parliament) for approval. Parliament Speaker Nurlanbek Shakiyev, who initially proposed the change, highlighted the importance of an anthem that is both inspiring and easy to perform, reflecting the nation’s progress and unity .
This initiative follows Kyrgyzstan’s recent decision to modify its national flag in 2023, altering the sun’s rays to better symbolize strength and independence. These changes signify a concerted effort to redefine national symbols in a manner that resonates with the country’s current identity and future aspirations.
The new anthem is expected to be adopted by April 2025, marking a pivotal moment in Kyrgyzstan’s journey to reinforce its national identity and cultural heritage.
Source: The Time of Central Asia
