Strasbourg highly appreciates the fact that the fight against domestic violence is among the priorities of the President of Kazakhstan, since this topic is a priority in the policy of the Council of Europe

Strasbourg highly appreciates the fact that the fight against domestic violence is among the priorities of the President of Kazakhstan, since this topic is a priority in the policy of the Council of Europe

On January 9, 2024, Consul General of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Anel Bakytbekkyzy held a meeting with the Secretary-General of the Council of Europe (COE) Marija Pejčinović Burić.

The European politician was informed about the implementation of political and democratic reforms, focusing on building a "Just Kazakhstan" outlined in President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's address.

Secretary-General of the COE commended Kazakhstan's President for the reforms, expressed readiness to enhance cooperation, and highlighted our country's regional role amid unprecedented geopolitical challenges.

The meeting covered various topics, including proposals to implement agreements reached in the past year, closer collaboration with the Committee of Experts on the Evaluation of Anti-Money Laundering Measures and the Financing of Terrorism (MONEYVAL), Committee of Experts on the Operation of the European Conventions on Cooperation in Criminal Matters (PC-OC), participation in the European Commission for Democracy through Law (Venice Commission), the Group of States against Corruption (GRECO), strengthening work within the framework of the CoE's Priorities for Neighborly Cooperation with the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2024-2027, and separately the issues of accession to the Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (Istanbul Convention).

Kazakhstan, as noted by Anel Baqytbekqyzy, is part of two Coalitions within the Generation Equality Forum – addressing gender-based violence and Economic Justice and Rights.

The Regional Program for Central Asia and Afghanistan under the UN and EU-led "Light of Law" Initiative is being implemented in Kazakhstan. The legislation in Kazakhstan already aligns with 70% of the Istanbul Convention.

Overall, attention was drawn to Kazakhstan's consistent pursuit of a progressive policy and reforms aimed at women, focusing on improving the quality of life and creating equal opportunities.

Marija Pejčinović Burić expressed gratitude for Kazakhstan's commitment to combating domestic violence and violence against women, recognizing it as a key aspect in the Council of Europe's policies.

Special attention was given to the implementation of COE's Priorities for Neighborly Cooperation with the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2024-2027, covering key directions for human rights and domestic political development in our country.