Preparation and conduct of the population census: The Kyrgyz model

Abstract

This paper covers main aspects of the first national population census of the Kyrgyz Republic during which use was made of new organizational methods or knowhow which contributed substantially to the success of the census and enable one to speak of a Kyrgyz model for census-taking. A vast advertising campaign concerning the census was conducted on television, radio and in newspapers, and a lottery draw based on the questionnaire forms was held and people could win many valuable prizes (one of the prizes was an apartment in the centre of Bishkek). This played an enormous role in involving the public in the census.

Following the pragmatic approach described above, the decision was taken to hold a pilot census in Kantsky district. The pilot census conducted half a year before the general census served as dress rehearsal for the first national population census.

A great deal of work was carried out to attract the help of sponsors and an international agreement was signed with the Government of Switzerland and funds were allocated to conduct the pilot census in Kantsky district. Substantial support was also obtained from the United Nations Population Fund.