OSCE Centre in Astana supports rehabilitation efforts and assistance to victims of human trafficking and domestic violence

ASTANA, 11 November 2010 - A roundtable meeting to assess the current situation and propose improvements to the social services and rehabilitation for victims of domestic violence and trafficking began today in Astana.

The meeting was organized by the OSCE Centre in Astana, the National Commission on Women and Demographic Policy, the International Organization for Migration, and Status, a local NGO. It brought together about 30 officials from the Prime Minister's Office, the Ministries of Labour, Justice, Internal Affairs and Health together with representatives of the non-governmental sector and international organizations.

"Victims of human trafficking and domestic violence require comprehensive assistance and support," said Jeannette Kloetzer, Deputy Head of the OSCE Centre in Astana. "This requires close interagency and government-civil society co-operation and co-ordination."

Serik Ahmetov, Secretary of the National Commission on Women and Demographic Policy, added that "strengthening the legislation and developing standards for assistance in conformity with victims' needs are among the priorities of the Commission".

The meeting completes an OSCE-supported project to strengthen the legislative and institutional framework, ensuring effective access to medical, psychological and social assistance for victims of trafficking and domestic violence.

As a result of the project, draft guidelines for victims of human trafficking and domestic violence have been developed through co-operation between 20 NGOs, relevant ministries and international experts.

The meeting is part of the OSCE Centre's long-term commitment to promote a victim-centred approach in combating domestic violence and trafficking in human beings.