S. Shapkenov discussed with the representative of UNDP the prospects of cooperation to improve the Kazakh model of social protection

The Minister of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan Serik Shapkenov held a meeting with the UNDP Permanent Representative in Kazakhstan Yakup Berish, during which the parties discussed the prospects of a joint project for 2021-2023 «Improving the effectiveness and accessibility of social protection and activation programs for socially vulnerable groups of the population», as well as the results of cooperation over the past years.

At the beginning of his speech, Serik Shapkenov noted the positive results of the joint project «Sustainable development of the social protection system of the population: promotion of programs for social integration and inclusion», implemented in 2018-2020.

«The project has shown the importance of the participation of international organizations in solving topical issues in relation to persons with disabilities. For our Government, the empowerment of persons with disabilities is one of the priorities», the head of the Ministry of Health said.

According to him, within the framework of achieving these goals, a set of measures is being implemented in Kazakhstan, including within the framework of the National Plan to ensure the rights and improve the quality of life of persons with disabilities in the Republic of Kazakhstan until 2025.

«In 2020, a Social services Portal was launched, providing for persons with disabilities the right to choose technical means and rehabilitation services directly from the supplier. In the same year, to assist in finding suitable vacancies, an Atlas of recommended professions and occupations for persons with Disabilities was developed and sent to employment centers. Ten Qogam centers for social support and employment of persons with disabilities have been opened in 9 regions-» Serik Shapkenov informed.

The Minister also said that, pursuant to the instructions of the Head of State, the Government is conducting internal procedures for the ratification of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and the Senate of Parliament is considering a draft law «On amendments and additions to some legislative acts of the Republic of Kazakhstan on social protection of certain categories of citizens».

In addition, Serik Shapkenov noted the prospects of the joint project of the MTSZN of the Republic of Kazakhstan and UNDP for 2021-2023 «Improving the effectiveness and accessibility of social protection and activation programs for socially vulnerable groups of the population».

«The new project will strengthen Kazakhstan's model of social protection, focused on self-realization and integration into society of the most vulnerable groups of the population. We highly appreciate the level of cooperation achieved and hope for further joint and productive work within the framework of current and prospective projects», he concluded.

In turn, Yakup Berish thanked the leadership of the MTSZN of the Republic of Kazakhstan for profilic joint work and expressed readiness for further productive cooperation.