On December 2, 2024, ahead of International Anti-Corruption Day, observed on December 9 under the UN Convention, a roundtable discussion was held at the Energy Institute of I. Razzakov Kyrgyz State Technical University (KSTU) on the topic “The Interconnection Between Environmental Awareness and Anti-Corruption Behavior.” The event brought together over 100 participants, including students of the Energy Institute and faculty from the «Technosphere Safety» Department. During the discussion, students actively asked questions and demonstrated keen interest in climate change issues and the role of environmental awareness in preventing corruption.
The keynote speaker, B. D. Kakeshov, the Commissioner for Anti-Corruption Prevention at the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology, and Technical Supervision of the Kyrgyz Republic, an Associate Professor at the Department of Criminal Law and Criminology of the Law Institute at Zhusup Balasagyn Kyrgyz National University (KNU), and a Candidate of Legal Sciences, delivered a report on “Corruption Prevention in Government Bodies.” He discussed the essence and types of corruption, anti-corruption legal norms, and mechanisms for combating corruption within government institutions.
Particular attention during the discussions was paid to the anti-corruption principles outlined in the Kyrgyz Republic’s Law on Combating Corruption, conflict of interest provisions under the Law on Conflict of Interest, and the UN Convention Against Corruption. Environmental legislation and other significant issues were also highlighted.
Biyik Ryskulov, the Director of the Republican Youth Center for Ecology, Local Lore, and Tourism of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Kyrgyz Republic, emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration in environmental protection and education. He underscored that student youth must develop a conscious attitude toward the environment by fostering ecological thinking and understanding the unity of nature and humanity. Active participation in practical activities aimed at nature conservation and restoration becomes a crucial part of this process.
Moreover, civic engagement in ecology and sustainable development requires more transparent and responsible governance, including monitoring environmental standards and overseeing expenditures on ecological projects. Public involvement in decision-making is becoming an integral component of this process.
Building environmental awareness is essential not only for nature conservation but also as part of a broader anti-corruption culture, which supports honesty and transparency in the management of natural resources.
