OSCE Centre facilitates dialogue on religious legislation in Kazakhstan

ALMATY, Kazakhstan, 12 October 2012 – Practical aspects and the impact of the implementation of the law on religious activity and religious associations adopted a year ago were the focus of an OSCE-supported roundtable meeting held in Almaty today.

The meeting brought together some 95 participants representing state bodies, religious communities and associations, international and local NGOs, academia and think-tank organizations. The participants discussed a commentary on the law developed by the Agency for Religious Affairs and its applicability as a guideline for religious organizations to enhance their compliance with the law.

Discussions focused on challenges in implementing the law, legal regulation of the activities of new religious movements, and ways to enhance inter-faith dialogue on preventing and combating extremism. Experts from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) shared their experience regarding international standards in the area of freedom of religion and belief, best practices in registering religious organizations and conducting theological reviews of religious material.

“The OSCE participating States have expressed their support for mutual tolerance and respect between various religious and secular groups. They have committed themselves to holding consultations with religious denominations, institutions and organizations to reach a better understanding of their needs,” said Natalia Zarudna, the Head of the OSCE Centre in Astana. “The OSCE Centre stands ready to assist Kazakhstan in fulfilling these commitments and in advancing religious freedom in the country.”

“The Agency for Religious Affairs carefully considered feedback on the law and, in collaboration with experts, developed a commentary to help explain its provisions,” said Kairat Lama Sharif, the Chairman of Kazakhstan’s Agency for Religious Affairs. “I have no doubt this event will contribute to the effectiveness of the further implementation of the law.”

The event was co-organized by the OSCE Centre in Astana, the Agency for Religious Affairs, ODIHR and the Regional Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights in Central Asia.