Kazakh President addresses Volunteers Forum

Kazakh President addresses Volunteers Forum

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev addressed participants of the Volunteers Forum in Astana, noting the special significance of the event, which brought together young people from across Kazakhstan. The Head of State thanked volunteers for their substantial contribution to the country’s development, describing them as true patriots, creative and caring young people. One national and 20 regional front offices are successfully operating nationwide. The number of volunteers has grown from 50,000 to 300,000.


«Volunteers are currently launching important initiatives in the environmental, educational, cultural, and other fields. In this context, the Zhas agash, Eco bakylau, and Bilim volunteers projects are particularly noteworthy. These initiatives, which have united around 100,000 volunteers, are bringing invaluable benefits to our country. I sincerely believe in the creative power of youthin each and every one of you. We have proven that by joining efforts, we can achieve great results. At this stage, it is important to maintain the momentum and move forward, responding to modern challengesTokayev said.


The President outlined five key prospects for the development of the volunteer movement. The focus is on the introduction of new technologies and systemic state-level measures, enhancing citizens environmental awareness, developing corporate volunteering, and strengthening international cooperation. For example, Kazakhstan participates in the UN Volunteers program and is expanding this movement within organizations such as the SCO, CICA, and the CIS.


«This year, at our initiative, Kazakhstan will host the first Volunteer Forum of the Commonwealth of Independent States. As you know, Kazakhstan is marking the International Year of Volunteers under the motto Together for a Sustainable Future.’ A special session on volunteering is planned as part of the Regional Environmental Summit, which will be held under the auspices of the UN in Astana this April. This event will promote best volunteer projects in the environmental field. A Caspian Sea Action Week and an International Volunteer Week for the Restoration of the Aral Sea Region are planned as well,» Tokayev noted.

The Head of State noted that this year is being observed globally as the International Year of Volunteers. Tokayev proposed this initiative at the 75th session of the UN General Assembly.