OSCE supports second international women’s forum in Kazakhstan

ASTANA, 2 August 2017 - The OSCE-supported Second International Women’s Forum on Future Energy: Women, Business, and the Global Economy began today in Astana for some 200 participants including high-level government officials and representatives of Kazakhstan’s Parliament, civil society and the business community.

Organized as part of the ongoing world exhibition EXPO-2017, which is being held in the capital, the Forum participants discussed ways to support women and women's organizations with a view to sustainable and inclusive development, a healthy environment and the transition to a ‘green’ economy. Organizers promoted the concept that teaching women new technology is an innovative form of charity and social entrepreneurship. Participants also heard an overview of Kazakhstan’s strategic document on attaining its Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

“A society which promotes women, both economically and politically, is a stronger society,” said Ambassador György Szabó, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Astana. “The OSCE actively encourages governments in all participating States to support gender equality.”

Saltanat Rakhimbekova, Chairperson of the Board of the NGO Coalition for the Green Economy and G-Global Development, said: “Arnasay - the first ‘green’ village in Kazakhstan, has been a successful example of these concepts put into practice. In the framework of this project, more than 5,000 students were trained in green technologies that they are applying in their work and research. They are a great example of how learning about green technologies and initiatives empowers all people and our country.”

The Forum is co-organized by the Coalition for the Green Economy and G-Global Development, the Social Dynamics Public Fund, the OSCE Programme Office in Astana and other international and non-governmental organizations.

It aims to support the host country in implementing the OSCE Action Plan for the Promotion of Gender Equality and encouraging women’s economic empowerment initiatives throughout the country.