OSCE Centre fosters discussion on developing local self-government in Kazakhstan

ASTANA, 24 November 2008 - Kazakh legislation on the development of local self-government was discussed at an international conference in Astana today.

The event, organized by the OSCE Centre in Astana, the United Nations Development Programme in Kazakhstan and the Institute for Parliamentary Development, brought together more than 80 participants, including parliamentarians, government representatives, experts and representatives of international and non-governmental organizations.

"Local self-government is one of the main democratic institutions, which brings the process of decision-making closer to the public," said Ambassador Alexandre Keltchewsky, the Head of the OSCE Centre. "Local self-government serves as a basis for the sustainable democratic development of any state."

Participants were discussing the draft law on local self-government, international standards in the field and co-operation between legislature, state authorities, political forces and the non-governmental sector in this field.

The event is part of the OSCE Centre's activities aimed at promoting democratic development and the consolidation of democratic institutions in Kazakhstan.