XII Regional Civil Forum Held in Kyzylorda: “The Role of Civil Society in Rural Development”

In Kyzylorda, with the participation of the regional government, the Parliament of Kazakhstan, the Ministry of Culture and Information, international organizations, and the NGO sector, the XII Regional Civil Forum “The Role of Civil Society in Rural Development” took place. The forum was organized jointly by the regional akimat, the Civil Alliance of Kazakhstan, and the Kyzylorda Regional NGO Alliance.

Participants included heads of local executive bodies, members of advisory and consultative structures, representatives of business and media, as well as leaders of public organizations from across Kazakhstan. During the plenary session, MPs and representatives of international and national funds delivered speeches. The forum was concluded by Banu Nurgazieva, President of the Civil Alliance of Kazakhstan, with moderation by Anar Izden, head of the regional Civil Alliance.

The forum highlighted the achievements of local NGOs in implementing projects supporting rural initiatives, with six community projects receiving small grants, and support provided by international organizations. Discussions included the implementation of projects, explanation of the fourth-level budget, support for socially vulnerable groups, and strengthening national unity.

Over 1,000 NGOs are officially registered in the region, 300 of which are actively involved in socio-political and cultural life. From 2023 to 2025, 3.6 billion KZT was allocated under the state social order for civil society development, more than 400 social projects were implemented, and 3,000 people were employed.

The forum demonstrated a new level of dialogue and cooperation between the state and NGOs, aimed at reducing the urban-rural gap and ensuring equal access to opportunities and resources. Active civil society representatives were awarded regional Certificates of Honor and Letters of Appreciation during the forum.