National Unity and Interethnic Harmony in Kazakhstan Gain Recognition in the Netherlands

The Hague, February 25, 2025 – Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the Netherlands, Kairat Abdrakhmanov, met with the National Coordinator of the Government of the Netherlands for Racism and Discrimination, Rabin Baldewsingh. The meeting focused on sharing best practices in combating discrimination and racism, as well as promoting principles of equality, tolerance, and interethnic harmony in diverse societies.

During the discussions, Ambassador Abdrakhmanov highlighted Kazakhstan’s concrete achievements in ensuring peaceful coexistence among ethnic and religious groups, as well as strengthening interethnic and interfaith unity. Special attention was given to the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan (APK), a consultative-advisory body under the President of Kazakhstan, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. Additionally, preparations for the upcoming 8th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, traditionally hosted in Kazakhstan, were discussed. This global forum plays a significant role in advancing peace and mutual understanding worldwide through interreligious and intercultural dialogue.

Rabin Baldewsingh presented the work of his governmental institution, which is reflected in the National Action Plan Against Racial Discrimination. This plan covers various areas, including promoting gender equality, combating discrimination against Muslims and other religious groups, protecting the rights of Roma and Sinti communities, and ensuring an inclusive approach to social policies in the Netherlands.

The Dutch side was also introduced to the key provisions of Kazakhstan’s National Human Rights Strategy, adopted in 2023. This strategy strengthened the protection of civil rights and introduced new measures to combat discrimination. Special emphasis was placed on the role of education and youth policy in fostering inclusivity and equality.

Both sides expressed their readiness to engage in broad and effective cooperation in these areas. This includes sharing best practices, organizing expert meetings, and participating in forums held both in the Netherlands and under the auspices of international and regional organizations such as the United Nations (UN) and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).