National Television and Radio Broadcasting Company (NTRK)

The National Television and Radio Broadcasting Company (NTRK) is the principal state broadcaster in Kyrgyzstan. Previously known as the Public Broadcasting Corporation (OTRK), it was restructured and rebranded as NTRK in May 2022. The corporation operates six television channels and five radio stations.

Media assets

Television: Public First Channel, KTRK Music, Madaniyat-Taryh-Til, Balastan, KTRK Sport, Ala-Too 24

Radio: Birinci Radio, Kyrgyz Radiosu, Min Kyal FM, Dostuk, Baldar FM

State Media Matrix Typology

Ownership and governance

NTRK was formally constituted under the Law on the National Television and Radio Broadcasting Corporation of the Kyrgyz Republic, enacted in 2022. This law made NTRK the legal successor to OTRK and dissolved the previous supervisory board. Critically, the legislation centralized authority by stipulating that the general director be appointed by the president, consolidating executive power and diminishing institutional oversight.

Source of funding and budget

The broadcaster’s finances predominantly rely on the state budget, complemented by commercial revenue streams. Media reports estimate an annual government allocation of around KGS 400 million (roughly US $5 million).

Editorial independence

While Kyrgyzstan historically enjoyed relatively greater media freedom compared to its regional peers, NTRK has long operated under tight government influence, especially in its editorial output. The 2022 law further entrenched this dynamic by bypassing independent oversight mechanisms and placing the broadcaster more firmly under presidential control. To date, no domestic law, independent body, or third-party assessment has been identified that offers institutional safeguards to ensure NTRK’s editorial autonomy.

August 2025