National human rights action plan presentation

Astana, September 10, 2009 (Khabar) - This is the first document in the history of Central Asia which defines the basic directions of both internal and external policy in the area of improvement and protection of rights. The National action plan in the field of human rights was developed at the request of the head of state. It is based on the results of special social research. The improvement of the national legislation in accordance with international standards is known to be one of the core tasks of Kazakhstan in anticipation of its chairmanship of the OSCE.

Kanat Saudabayev, secretary of state, minister for foreign affairs of Kazakhstan:
- The promotion and protection of human rights cannot be implemented without any account taken of world experience. This fact has defined Kazakhstan’s decision to join corresponding conventions and treaties of the UNO in the area of human rights to a large extent including International pacts on civil and political rights as well as economic, social and cultural ones. Active work is being continued in this direction. At present, the government of Kazakhstan is conducting an examination of the issue related to a possible ratification of the Convention of the rights of people with disabilities.

The strengthening of norms which secure the equality of rights of Kazakh people regardless of either national identity or religious affiliation will be continued in the legislation on the request of the head of state. Law officers and human rights defenders are attaching great importance to the work on bills of gender equality and the prevention of domestic violence as well.