The OSCE hosted the International Round Table on Justice System Reforms in Kazakhstan on February 28, 2025. The event drew over 100 participants, focusing on court administration modernization, judges’ performance evaluation, and judicial education enhancements. High-level officials underscored the need for collaboration and continuous reform efforts to improve the justice system’s effectiveness in Kazakhstan.
On February 28, 2025, an International Round Table titled “Improving the Effectiveness of the Justice System in Kazakhstan: Achievements and Initiatives” was held in Astana. This event was part of an extrabudgetary initiative funded by Poland, Norway, and the United States, in collaboration with Kazakhstan’s judiciary and jointly organized with the Supreme Court and the Court Administration of Kazakhstan. Over 100 participants attended, comprising top officials, government representatives, international organizations, and scholars to discuss recent developments and future strategies in the justice sector.
High-profile attendees included Yerzhan Zhienbayev, Assistant to the President on Legal Issues; Aslambek Mergaliyev, Chairperson of the Supreme Court; and Pamela Harris, President of the International Association for Court Administration. Civil society representatives, academic members, international organizations, and personnel from the diplomatic community also contributed to the discussions.
The dialogue focused on three key components of the project: court administration modernization, evaluation systems for judges, and enhancements in judicial education. The session on court administration emphasized the project’s role in developing strategic frameworks to improve efficiency and human resources policies within the judiciary. Yuri Fenopetov, Deputy Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Astana, noted that this initiative has provided significant support and established a data-driven approach to judicial reform in Kazakhstan.
Following that, the second session examined the evaluation of judges’ performance and disciplinary processes aimed at improving transparency and judicial ethics. During this discussion, the Chairperson of the Justice Quality Commission emphasized the significance of a survey conducted under this project and the constructive recommendations from consultants to enhance the evaluation system. Pamela Harris remarked on the necessity to learn from each other and continuously adapt practices for better governance in court administration.
The final session addressed improvements in judicial education, with academic representatives highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts among all key stakeholders to develop effective training programs for judges and court officials. Aslambek Mergaliyev pointed out that judicial reform is a strategic objective requiring a collective commitment from all parties involved, aimed at creating a justice system that meets the demands of contemporary society.
Overall, the discussions highlighted the substantial achievements made under the project, including critical reforms and modernization initiatives. Nevertheless, participants recognized the importance of continued cooperation and additional actions required to improve Kazakhstan’s justice system effectively. The event reaffirmed the dedication of all involved to advancing judicial reforms and reinforcing the rule of law in Kazakhstan.
In conclusion, the International Round Table illustrated significant strides being made in the effectiveness of Kazakhstan’s justice system through modernization, evaluation reforms, and enhanced educational efforts. The collaborative approach among stakeholders is essential for achieving continued progress and addressing modern challenges in the judiciary. The commitment to ongoing reforms and rule of law underscores a collective vision for a more efficient and just legal framework.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
