Kyrgyzstan
Explosive hazards inherited from past wars
Certain border areas with Uzbekistan and Tajikistan remain contaminated by landmines and other explosive remnants of war — vestiges of past conflicts. In particular, Batken province remains affected, with contamination restricting access to pastureland and farmland and causing recurring civilian accidents. Obsolete and unsecured stockpiles also pose risks, including potential diversion by criminal actors. These dangers threaten local populations and cross-border exchanges, making it essential to strengthen local capacities to manage and address these threats.
Building local expertise for lasting impact
In partnership with the OSCE, FSD trains and supports Kyrgyz border guards to detect and neutralise explosives, manage obsolete or illegal weapons and ammunition stockpiles, and use detection dogs to identify hazardous devices. In August 2025, this collaboration was further strengthened through the launch of a new capacity-building project with the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, combining training and mentoring to align procedures with international safety and quality standards. In November, an initial training course was delivered in Osh, equipping ten border guards with foundational skills in explosive ordnance disposal. These efforts help protect communities from explosive-related accidents while strengthening regional security and stability by preventing the proliferation of weapons.
In the past, FSD has also carried out other projects in Kyrgyzstan, addressing a different kind of contamination: toxic residues left behind by the former uranium mining industry.
Strengthening cooperation and sustainability
In 2026, FSD will continue supporting the Kyrgyz Border Service through follow-up training and ongoing mentorship, based on identified needs. The organisation also plans to expand its approach at the regional level, contributing to stronger coordination and more consistent standards across Central Asia.
FSD’s programme in Kyrgyzstan is funded by the U.K. Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and carried out in partnership with the OSCE.
For nearly 30 years, FSD has been working to make land safer. Explore the key milestones of our humanitarian work since our first demining operation in 1998.
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