Parliamentary group “Children of Kazakhstan” officially launched in the Kurultai of the Republic of Kazakhstan with UNICEF support

ASTANA, 27 October 2026 – Within the framework of the Second International Forum of Commissioners for Children's Rights, the “Children of Kazakhstan” parliamentary group of the Kurultai of the Republic of Kazakhstan officially commenced its work under the leadership of Member of Kurultai Dana Medeuova. The initiative, aimed at bolstering parliamentary engagement in the protection of children’s rights and interests, has received institutional backing with the support of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

The groundwork for the launch was laid on 15 September during a working meeting between MP Dana Medeuova and Dr. Rashed Mustafa Sarwar, UNICEF Representative to Kazakhstan. During the meeting, the sides discussed the need to consolidate legislative efforts and outlined the prospects for long-term strategic cooperation.

The formation of the group was informed by global parliamentary practices in the interest of children, including proven models from Japan and the Republic of Korea. This approach leverages tested international methodologies while shaping a tailored national framework that responds directly to Kazakhstan’s priorities and the needs of its children.

The activities of the “Children of Kazakhstan” group will focus on the systematic review of issues affecting the rights and well-being of children, fostering cross-sectoral collaboration, and promoting evidence-based policy solutions in the best interests of the younger generation.

UNICEF serves as a key partner in this endeavor, providing global expertise, technical assistance, and facilitating the exchange of international best practices in child rights governance.

“The establishment of the ‘Children of Kazakhstan’ parliamentary group marks a vital step toward reinforcing institutional mechanisms for child rights protection at the highest legislative level. We extend our sincere gratitude to the deputies of the Kurultai for their leadership and political will. Parliamentarians play a pivotal role in creating an environment where the rights and well-being of every child are placed at the heart of state policy. UNICEF stands ready to fully support this initiative by mobilizing international expertise and proven global practices,” said Dr. Rashed Mustafa Sarwar, UNICEF Representative to Kazakhstan.

The work of the parliamentary group is already actively underway. In November, the group plans to hold its first joint session with UNICEF to determine priority areas for future collaboration and agree on concrete, actionable steps for their implementation.