OSCE Centre in Astana facilitates national dialogue on social services for victims of cruel treatment
ASTANA, 24 May 2013 – Ensuring access to special social services for victims of cruel treatment, including victims of human trafficking and domestic violence, was the topic of an OSCE-supported discussion in Astana today that brought together national and international experts.
Some 70 members of the Parliament of Kazakhstan, representatives of relevant executive bodies, international organizations and local NGOs took part in the event, co-organized by the OSCE Centre in Astana in co-operation with the Legislation and Legal Reform Committee of Kazakhstan’s Parliament and the International Organization for Migration (IOM). It was held within the framework of the Kazakhstan National Plan on Prevention and Combating Human Trafficking 2012-2014, which covers access to special social services for victims of human trafficking.
Participants discussed legislation, law enforcement practice, challenges and obstacles in delivering assistance to victims of cruel treatment including victims of human trafficking and domestic violence. The discussions raised a range of questions related to the current law “On Special Social Services” for the victims of cruel treatment such as human trafficking and made recommendations for improvements. Experts from the Czech Republic, Moldova, Serbia, the UK, as well as from Kazakhstan shared the experience and best practices of their respective countries.
In her speech, Ambassador Zarudna, head of the OSCE Centre in Astana said: “A state must not and cannot rely solely upon non-governmental organizations and charity organizations in addressing all issues relating to victims of violence. Both punishment of criminals and provision of services to victims of cruel treatment are essential for combatting and preventing the crimes, and the involvement of the state is a prerequisite.”
Svetlana Bychkova, Secretary of the Legislative Committee of the Majilis (lower chamber of parliament) said: “Kazakhstan continues to strengthen its social protection system and protection of victims of cruel treatment. Trust and professional referral service that would help victims receive legal counseling, psychological and financial assistance should be the next step to further protect this vulnerable group of people.”
The national dialogue was part of the Centre’s longstanding efforts to assist Kazakhstan in reforming its legislation and practice with regard to combating domestic violence and trafficking in human beings, one of the priorities of the Ukrainian OSCE Chairmanship in 2013.