How Gul Newspaper Empowers Central Asian Women in Russia

A tiny newspaper is changing lives for migrant women in Russia. Meet the team behind Gul—where empowerment starts with a page. Without funding, their fight for equality could end.

, and Administrator

2026 January 31 . 3:23 AM

1 min read

The image shows the front page of a newspaper with a black and white image of a woman in a dress.... — The image shows the front page of a newspaper with a black and white image of a woman in a dress. The newspaper is the Russian newspaper, and the text on the page is likely related to the woman in the image.

How Gul Newspaper Empowers Central Asian Women in Russia

A small but vital newspaper called Gul—meaning 'flower' in Turkic languages—is making a difference for Central Asian women in Russia. Run by an all-women team, it offers guidance on legal rights, housing, and daily challenges in four languages. The publication aims to empower migrant women facing hardships in a foreign country.

Russia has long been a destination for migrants from Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. Many arrive seeking work but encounter obstacles like language barriers, poor job conditions, and scarce housing. Gul was created to address these struggles, focusing on human rights, gender equality, and practical advice.

The newspaper is produced by a diverse group of women, including Ajim Baky, a Kyrgyz native with a political science degree from St. Petersburg. Articles cover everything from navigating Russia's legal system to finding safe accommodation. Personal stories and women's issues take centre stage, ensuring the content stays relevant to its readers.

Gul is available in Uzbek, Tajik, Kyrgyz, and Russian, reaching its audience both in print and online. Copies are distributed near migration centres, markets, and embassies in St. Petersburg. Despite its impact, the project now faces financial strain and is searching for funding to keep running.

For Central Asian migrant women in Russia, Gul provides essential information and support. Its survival depends on securing new funding. Without it, a key resource for education, legal help, and community connection could disappear.