OSCE Centre launches training series to support local self-government reforms in Kazakhstan

ASTANA. KAZINFORM The first in a series of OSCE-supported training seminar for rural and small town municipalities aimed at strengthening local self-government across the country was held on August 1, 2014 in Aktobe, West Kazakhstan.

The event was organized by the OSCE Centre in Astana in partnership with the Regional Development Ministry, the Economy and Budget Planning Ministry and the Aktobe regional administration. Similar seminars will be held in five different regions of the country over the course of this year, the Centre's press service said.

In this training seminar, some 80 representatives of the Aktobe region municipal bodies learnt about the key issues and requirements of the new local self-governance strategy of Kazakhstan. The training programme covered the legal framework and mechanisms; the financial and economic framework and tools as well as the means to enhance citizens' involvement in decision-making processes. The trainees received a guide, produced by international and local experts and supported by the OSCE Centre; the publication is specially tailored for rural and small town mayors.

The project is part of the Centre's activities in supporting Kazakhstan in promoting good governance and democratization.