The International Round Table on “Improving the Effectiveness of the Justice System in Kazakhstan” took place on 28 February 2025 in Astana, focusing on judicial reforms and initiatives under an extrabudgetary project funded by international partners. Key discussions covered modernization of court administration, evaluation of judges’ professional performance, and enhancements in judicial education, with contributions from various stakeholders underscoring the commitment to advancing the justice system in Kazakhstan.
On 28 February 2025, an International Round Table titled “Improving the Effectiveness of the Justice System in Kazakhstan: Achievements and Initiatives” was convened in Astana. The event was part of an extrabudgetary project aimed at enhancing judicial effectiveness, funded by Poland, Norway, and the United States, in collaboration with Kazakhstan’s judicial authorities. Over 100 participants, including judiciary representatives, government officials, international organizations, and academics, convened to discuss crucial advancements and prospective initiatives in the justice sector.
Notable attendees included Yerzhan Zhienbayev, Assistant to the President of Kazakhstan on Legal Issues; Aslambek Mergaliyev, Chairperson of the Supreme Court; and Pamela Harris, President of the International Association for Court Administration. Civil society representation included members of the Republican Bar Association, academia, international organizations, and the diplomatic community, emphasizing the round table’s comprehensive approach.
The discussions revolved around pivotal components of the project, such as the modernization of court administration, evaluation of judges’ performance, and enhancement of judicial education. The first session focused on court administration modernization, where speakers noted how the project has contributed to creating a strategic path for efficient court operations and improved human resources policies. Yuri Fenopetov, Deputy Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Astana, expressed the significance of continuous support and research for future judicial governance developments.
The second session addressed judges’ performance evaluations and the implementation of disciplinary procedures aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability. The Chairperson of the Justice Quality Commission emphasized the value of the judges’ survey conducted through the initiative, which led to important recommendations. Pamela Harris remarked on the necessity for continuous adaptation and collaboration to achieve effective governance in judicial administration.
The final session discussed the enhancement of judicial education, focusing on the need for collaboration to establish relevant training programs for judges and court officials. Aslambek Mergaliyev highlighted that judicial reform extends beyond infrastructure improvements, underscoring the strategic requirement for a system meeting modern societal demands and ensuring justice accessibility.
The round table emphasized substantial achievements made through the extrabudgetary project, indicating significant reforms and modernization. However, participants recognized the necessity for prolonged collaboration and further initiatives to bolster the effectiveness of Kazakhstan’s justice system, reaffirming a collective commitment to judicial reform and the rule of law.
In conclusion, the International Round Table held in Astana served as a crucial platform for discussing the achievements and future directions of judicial reforms in Kazakhstan. With active participation from key stakeholders, the event highlighted ongoing efforts toward modernization, transparency in judicial performance, and the importance of education within the justice sector. The continued collaboration among these entities remains vital for advancing the rule of law and ensuring an effective justice system in Kazakhstan.
Original Source: www.osce.org
