The Kyrgyz Republic operates, in the town of Khairdarken, the last primary mercury mine known to export mercury to the global market-place. It represents approximately 10% of the global mercury market. Generating new primary mercury is considered by the international community as the least preferred source of mercury supply, and action to assist the Kyrgyz Republic to transition away from primary mining has been recognized as a priority.
The goal of this project is to assist the Kyrgyz Republic to transition to more sustainable economic activities over the long term, in light of the future global mercury treaty. Ultimately, limiting mercury supply globally will encourage the transition to alternative technologies in areas where mercury is still used.
The project aims to initially support transition actions in three thematic areas identified:
1) Reduction of most immediate threats posed by the mine site to the environment and the local population;
2) Promotion of investment in other industrial activities in the region;
3) Promotion of local alternative employment in the region.
Further support will be required to assist the Kyrgyz Republic in any future mine transition process. Despite possible concerns about recent political developments in the Kyrgyz Republic, project partners consider that the mercury mine project remains well-regarded amongst the authorities at all levels in the Kyrgyz Republic and that it is important to maintain ongoing momentum to address the challenges facing the country.
Project documentation
Technical Assessment
English 
Russian
Socio-Economic Assessment and appendices (in partnership with UNITAR)
English (document)
English (appendices)
Russian (document)
Russian (appendices)
Kyrgyzstan Action Plan (in partnership with UNITAR)
English
Russian
A Synopsis - Remediation Planning
English
Feasibility StudyDevelopment of gold and other mineral deposits near Khaidarkan
English Russian
Promoting alternative job opportunities in Khaidarkan in partnership with UNDP
English Russian
Other related documents
‘United Nations Statement - Kyrgyzstan Primary Mercury Mine’, delivered at the Kyrgyzstan National Forum on 6 July 2009, by the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Kyrgyz Republic, Mr. Neal Walker: English Russian
Draft: Economic Benefits and Infrastructure Assessment. Review of local development opportunities and capacities in environmental remediation in the Khaidarkan area, Kyrgyzstan: English 
and - Russian and .