Experts from Central Asia are discussing issues related to the development of economic policies based on data

More than 150 representatives from government agencies and experts from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Mongolia, and the United Kingdom are participating in the second conference on "Effective Governance for Economic Development in Central Asia." Over the course of two days (May 17-18), participants will discuss innovative approaches and exchange cutting-edge experiences in utilizing evidence-based data for the development of effective public policy measures and reforms.

The conference is held as part of the "Effective Governance for Economic Development" (EGED) program, financed by the British government through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and implemented by the World Bank and the Agency for Technical Cooperation and Development (ACTED). The program has been implemented since 2022 with the goal of generating higher-quality data and factual materials in Central Asian countries, utilizing modern analytical methods alongside inclusive approaches to engaging civil society in the policy-making process.

"The Effective Governance for Economic Development (EGED) program, led by the World Bank, is a platform that allows us to share our reform vision and receive feedback from our partners. We are actively modernizing our statistical system to address current challenges. Our main mission is to build trust among all users, particularly civil society, by providing reliable data for decision-making," said Aset Irgaliyev, Chairman of the Agency for Strategic Planning and Reforms of the Republic of Kazakhstan, during his speech at the conference.

During the event, participants will share their experiences in data collection and analysis, as well as their use in public policy. World Bank experts will present reports on the findings of the recent surveys on "Listening to Citizens in Central Asia," which analyze factors contributing to citizens' well-being and mechanisms for effective interaction between authorities and the public in all countries of the region.

"Central Asia has great potential in developing evidence-based public policies. Today's conference is a catalyst that will accelerate progress in this direction in the region. The collection and use of reliable data and factual materials are essential components of the World Bank's work, and I am pleased to see that this area also contributes to bringing Central Asian countries closer together," noted Tatiana Proskuryakova, World Bank Regional Director for Central Asia.

Kazakhstan joined the "Effective Governance for Economic Development in Central Asia" program in March 2023.