Seminar on the Discussion of Kazakhstan’s Voluntary National Review Project on the Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals

On February 12, the President of the Civil Alliance of Kazakhstan, Banu Nurgaziyeva, spoke at a seminar held in Astana to discuss Kazakhstan’s Voluntary National Review (VNR) for the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – 2025.

The event brought together representatives from the UN, central government bodies, civil society, the business sector, and expert institutions. B. Nurgaziyeva emphasized the key role that civil society plays in achieving the SDGs by ensuring transparency, public engagement, and the collection, analysis, and advocacy of citizens’ real interests. This involvement not only addresses strategic development goals but also strengthens partnerships between the state and society and fosters a culture of constructive public discourse.

According to B. Nurgaziyeva, the concrete contribution of Kazakhstani NGOs to the preparation of Voluntary National Reviews on SDG implementation is realized through their participation in consultations and working groups for monitoring specific SDGs, compiling best practices, and developing recommendations for adjusting relevant state policies.

Civil society’s potential also includes conducting independent surveys and research, particularly on the progress of SDGs among vulnerable and under-studied population groups. This work encompasses educational programs and information campaigns to raise public awareness, as well as partnerships with international organizations and businesses to attract additional expertise and resources.

As an example, the speaker highlighted the role of civil society in Almaty. In 2023, the XIII City Civil Forum in Almaty brought together hundreds of representatives from various sectors to develop recommendations for achieving the SDGs. These recommendations were largely taken into account in the preparation of the review, demonstrating the effectiveness of state–NGO partnerships in promoting sustainable development and providing experience in aligning the city’s development with the global SDG agenda.

As a result, Almaty became the first city in Central Asia to prepare a Voluntary Local Review on SDG implementation. The Civil Alliance of Kazakhstan thus makes a significant contribution to achieving the SDGs by uniting the efforts and aspirations of Kazakhstani citizens and promoting sustainable development across the country.