Today, most young people in Kyrgyzstan receive information through social media, messaging apps, and online platforms. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an integral part of everyday life: it is widely used for studying, searching for information, creating content, and daily communication.
Along with new opportunities, serious digital risks are also emerging from this technology. For example, young people are increasingly facing the spread of misinformation generated by AI, including fake images, fabricated audio recordings, and manipulative content.
These risks are not divided equally. Girls and women are particularly vulnerable, as they often become targets of digital violence and online harassment. Additionally, United Nations reporting shows that low-income families and those in rural areas have a much lower digital literacy rate in Kyrgyzstan, making them especially vulnerable to digital risks. These issues are particularly apparent in southern Kyrgyzstan, which is predominantly rural.
While many young people in these communities actively use digital technologies, they do not always possess sufficient knowledge about digital security, personal data protection, or the responsible use of AI tools. This means that youth and human rights organizations must also rapidly evolve their approaches to fill this gap.
Digital challenges and a local response
The public union Noviy Ritm has been working for more than 11 years in the city of Osh and across the southern regions of Kyrgyzstan, implementing educational programs for youth in human rights, gender equality, and civic participation.
Through training sessions, volunteer initiatives, and community projects, the organization helps young people better understand their rights, build leadership skills, and actively participate in public life.
However, modern realities dictate that human rights work can no longer focus solely on offline issues. It is now essential to address digital rights, online safety, data protection, and the societal impact of AI.
The Digital Youth Spark Project
To address these pressing challenges, Noviy Ritm implemented the “Digital Youth Spark” project. Between July and August 2026, the team successfully organized and delivered a series of practical trainings on digital safety, data protection, and AI literacy. In total, 50 key representatives took part in these trainings, including NGO workers, activists, human rights defenders, volunteers, and organizational members.
During these sessions, participants raised significant concerns regarding online privacy and data protection, particularly those actively engaged in civic work, human rights advocacy, and community organizing. The discussions highlighted a growing demand for secure communication channels and robust personal data protocols in non-governmental work.
Amplifying awareness beyond classrooms
Responding directly to the questions, real-life cases, and needs identified during the July–August workshops, Noviy Ritm expanded the impact of the project beyond direct training. The team developed a dedicated information and awareness campaign, producing educational short-form videos (reels) and accessible digital media content.
These reels touched on issues such as how to safely express opinions online, the potential legal consequences of social media activism in Kyrgyzstan, securing accounts, and more.
This campaign aims to reach the broader public, equipping everyday citizens and youth across southern Kyrgyzstan with vital knowledge about digital hygiene, data protection, and online safety.
For Noviy Ritm, this initiative goes far beyond adopting new software or digital tools. It represents a vital evolution in youth work — ensuring that young people and activists in Kyrgyzstan are prepared to navigate a complex digital landscape safely.
Today, it is impossible to advocate for human rights without defending digital rights. By combining interactive training with wide-reaching educational campaigns, organizations can ensure that youth remain resilient, protected, and empowered in an increasingly digital world.
