OSCE Programme Office in Astana trains law enforcement officials and academics on responsible and transparent project management

ASTANA, 18 April 2016 – An OSCE-supported three-day training seminar for some 30 officials from the law enforcement agencies and academia on responsible project management began today in Astana.

Representatives of the Internal Affairs Ministry, Civil Service Affairs Ministry, the Prosecutor General’s Office and academia will learn about the basic components of project management and how to improve operational processes, oversee project implementation and ensure that results are achieved on time and within budget.

The event is organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Astana in co-operation with the Academy of Law Enforcement Agencies under the Prosecutor General’s Office. It is led by an OSCE-supported expert on promoting professional knowledge and skills in dealing with projects and their implementation with the aim of preventing criminal mismanagement, corruption or embezzlement of funds.

"Corruption thrives on the incapacity of state institutions and the inefficiency of government. It is an additional tax on the population which exacerbates poverty and increases social inequality by diverting funds that could be used for essential social services," said Colin McCullough, Political Officer at the OSCE Programme Office in Astana. “The OSCE attaches great importance to the fight against corruption. Preventing it maintains stability, not only within the country, but in the region as a whole.”

Deputy Prosecutor General Zhakip Asanov talked about specific cases where the government could do more to seek justice for victims of violent and financial crimes.  He also encouraged the managers in the audience to provide their teams with goals and clear guidelines to help them do their jobs.

This programme builds on the OSCE Programme Office’s multi-year activities in the field of good governance and combating corruption in the host country.