Every year, an average of 150 new members join the ranks of Kazakhstan’s ‘third sector.’ While there were only a couple of dozen NGOs at the dawn of the country’s Independence, at present their number exceeds 23,000. Thus, the country's civil sector has grown to the most developed social institution in Central Asia. Kazakh Minister of Information and Social Development Aida Balayeva announced this during the opening of the 10th Civil Forum. According to the participants, the forum has become the main platform for dialogue between society, government and business. Over the years, more than 500 recommendations have been elaborated and taken up for practical implementation by state bodies.
“This year’s forum will include various thematic sections, special meetings and lectures. We see efficiency and results in every forum. In this regard, there is great confidence in the partnership of the state and public organizations. The most important thing is that we have established a joint work, a common understanding, and a systemic approach in this area. Therefore, I hope that every opinion expressed during the forum will be taken into account and form the basis of our plans for the future,” Balayeva said.
The number of forum participants is growing from year to year. For the first time such large international organizations as OSCE, UNICEF and UNESCO are taking part in this event. The forum will be held over five days. Live broadcasts will be available on social media.
Translation by Assem Zhanmukhanova
Editing by Galiya Khassenkhanova
