ODIHR and Kazakhstan’s Human Rights Commissioner renew co-operation on human rights

WARSAW, 8 October 2026 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) and the Commissioner for Human Rights in the Republic of Kazakhstan today signed a new agreement to continue their co-operation in protecting and promoting human rights.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed in Warsaw by ODIHR Director Maria Telalian and Kazakhstan’s Commissioner for Human Rights, Artur Lastayev. It sets out a framework for co-operation until the end of 2030.

“Independent national human rights institutions have an important role in protecting human rights and ensuring that OSCE commitments and international standards are reflected in law and practice,” said ODIHR Director Maria Telalian. “This Memorandum provides a practical framework for continuing our co-operation with the Commissioner’s Office, strengthening its effectiveness in promoting and protecting human rights, in line with ODIHR’s mandate.”

Areas for co-operation include capacity-building for the Commissioner’s Office, legal opinions on draft or existing legislation upon official request, human rights education and engagement with civil society. The memorandum also covers the strengthening of the protection of human rights defenders, torture prevention and the National Preventive Mechanism, as well as human rights challenges arising from digital technologies.

“Our institution has been granted guarantees of independence, an expanded mandate, and a stronger institutional framework, supported by a nationwide network of regional offices. We continue to strengthen the National Preventive Mechanism, work to prevent torture and domestic violence, and protect the rights of vulnerable groups,” said Artur Lastayev, the Commissioner for Human Rights. “The Memorandum we are signing today lays a solid foundation for further deepening our co-operation in improving legislation and advancing human rights education.”

The agreement also provides for consultations and dialogue involving the Commissioner’s Office, relevant public institutions, civil society organizations and experts.