Meeting of the Working Group on Human Rights Compliance in Kazakhstan

On February 4, 2025, a meeting of the Working Group on Ensuring Human Rights Compliance in Business Activities in accordance with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights was held at the venue of the JSC “Economic Research Institute.” 

The event brought together representatives of government bodies, the business community, civil society, and internationa.organizations.

The meeting presented the results of the National Baseline Assessment and discussed mechanisms for implementing human rights due diligence and ensuring access to remedy for victims. The session also included a presentation on the activities of the National Contact Point (NCP) as one of the key mechanisms for protecting human rights in business operations.

The main issues discussed during the meeting included:

- the impact of due diligence mechanisms on human rights compliance in business;

- the level of companies’ awareness of international standards and necessary implementation measures;

- optimal monitoring mechanisms for ensuring compliance with due diligence procedures;

- motivating businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, to adopt due diligence processes;

- the development of access-to-justice mechanisms for victims of business-related human rights violations;

- non-judicial remedies, including mediation, arbitration, and ombudsman mechanisms;

- legislative improvements for the effective resolution of corporate human rights violations.

As a result of the meeting, the Working Group formulated recommendations for further discussion with government agencies, business associations, and international partners.

The group will continue its work through consultations and dialogue with stakeholders. In the near future, detailed recommendations will be prepared to serve as the basis for improving national legislation and practical mechanisms for the protection of human rights in business activities.