OSCE Centre in Astana

The Centre in Astana supports a variety of awareness-raising and educational activities on human rights. It works closely with governmental and non-governmental actors to promote a constructive dialogue on human rights issues, and continuously monitors the human rights situation in Kazakhstan, conducting trial monitoring and maintaining contacts with local partners in the country's regions. One of the Centre's priorities is to promote the strengthening of civil society, in particular through support for local human rights and women's organizations, as well as support for efforts by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to monitor the human rights situation and engage with government officials. Other priority areas include reform of the criminal justice system and human rights education. The Centre co-ordinates closely with the OSCE's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) in its various activities, and facilitates participation in ODIHR seminars and meetings by Kazakhstani NGOs.

International agreements and domestic legislation

The Centre supports Kazakhstan's efforts to implement international human rights agreements, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. It also facilitates discussion and the provision of international expertise on draft legislation in key areas affecting human rights and civil society.

Trafficking in human beings

One of the Centre's main activities in the field of human rights protection is its support of Kazakhstan's fight against trafficking in human beings, which includes raising awareness among the general public, NGOs, and local and national authorities. The Centre supports efforts by Kazakhstan to establish and implement effective anti-trafficking measures, including the introduction of a national referral mechanism, a co-operative framework to protect and promote the rights of victims in strategic partnership with civil society. Special attention is paid to the issue of trafficking for the purpose of labour exploitation, especially given Kazakhstan's role as a destination country for labour migrants from neighbouring countries.

Gender issues

Working together with NGOs and government agencies, the Centre seeks to raise public awareness of gender issues and to develop a strategy for increasing participation by women in politics. It also supports the development of draft legislation on equal rights and opportunities and on domestic violence, as well as capacity building for women's organizations.