Digital transformation, climate change, youth participation,
women's empowerment, and sustainable development—these key issues are being
discussed at the 5th EU-Central Asia Civil Society Forum in Almaty. The event
gathered over 150 representatives from EU and UN agencies, regional
governments, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Notably, more than
23,000 such organizations currently operate in Kazakhstan. Experts at the forum
also discussed the role of civil society in the country's development and the
government's efforts to support the non-governmental sector. The European Union
actively collaborates with Kazakhstan in various areas, including the economy,
environment, and human rights protection. Through initiatives such as Global
Gateway, the EU supports the country with investments and programs that
contribute to the development of the region's energy, education, and economy.
«At the forum, we are discussing investment projects in
economic development, sustainable energy, digital transformation, and transport
logistics. We believe that this will help Kazakhstan to attract direct
investment from Europe. The forum has a significant impact on the development
of civil society and promotes the role of civil society organizations in
fostering interstate relations. Additionally, it supports the development of
Kazakh non-governmental organizations and brings civil society closer to international
standards,» said Kazakh Vice Minister of Culture and Information Aizada
Kurmanova.
«A notable advantage of civil society, particularly Kazakh
civil society, is that we have public platforms where issues related to the
rights of children, women, and socially vulnerable groups can be discussed,
such as public councils. Recently, an electronic petition system was
introduced, providing an opportunity to advocate for and promote the rights of
these groups,» said Nurzhamal Iminova, Development Director of the «Shyrak»
Association of Women with Disabilities.
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