Chairman of the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Ms. Azimova,

Dear colleagues and distinguished speakers,

I am grateful to be able to discuss this topic of paramount importance with you. We already heard many important points that I hope to reinforce by sharing the EU perspective.

We gather here on the backdrop of a significant milestone—the 75^th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This landmark document laid the foundation for a world, where the inherent dignity and equal rights of all members of the human family are recognized. Today, we reflect on its enduring relevance and the imperative it places upon us to further its principles in the pursuit of a healthier planet.

The simple idea enshrined in the Declaration, that rights cannot be given, but that they belong to every person continues to have a revolutionary impact still today. Yet, while rights cannot be given, they can be taken away, negated and violated. This still happens far too often every day in the world. That is why, as HRVP Borrell said, “We need to be inspired by that landmark document and the global consensus it enshrined. Recognising that we face adverse trends and the global human rights situation is getting worse, we must be determined and creative in our defence of the universality of human rights.”

The pursuit of dignity and equality is integral to the well-being of our global community. We must strive to create societies, where every individual, regardless of their background, can live a life of dignity. This requires the promotion of human rights as a universal standard, transcending borders and cultural differences. Our commitment to human rights is not just a moral imperative; it is a practical necessity for building resilient and harmonious societies and to ensuring a healthy planet, where the most marginalized are not left behind.

Protecting human rights is at the heart of the European Union. The EU is founded on a shared determination to promote peace and stability and to build a world founded on respect for human rights, democracy and the rule of law. These principles underpin all aspects of the internal and external policies of the European Union. In 2012, the EU adopted its Strategic Framework and Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy, and two successive Action Plans have been adopted since, each for a 4 year period. They define a framework of the EU’s political and financial tools, instruments and priorities to promote human rights and democracy across the world.

One significant initiative in this regard is the Central Asia Rule of Law Programme, through which the EU provides vital support to strengthen legal frameworks, enhance access to justice, and promote human rights in the region. Through our collaboration with our Central Asian partners, we support societies where the rule of law is a cornerstone, ensuring that justice is accessible to all.

Most of the Central Asian countries are currently implementing major constitutional reforms. In Kazakhstan, this new Constitutional Court welcoming us today is a direct result of these important reforms, which aims, inter alia, to streamline the constitutional proceedings and introduce individual access to the Constitutional Court.

I believe that this important event today will give additional incentives to continue the reform process aimed at improving the national human rights protection mechanisms, for the benefit of all citizens. Furthermore, I am pleased to inform that the Constitutional Court of Kazakhstan will benefit from the support of the EU’s TAIEX program through the organization of two workshops – both on "Constitutional Complaints and Access to Constitutional Justice" and on "Enhancing professional development in the conduct of constitutional proceedings." These initiatives aim to fortify the constitutional processes in Kazakhstan, fostering an environment where justice is not only served but is understood and accessible.

Moreover, the EU is actively planning to engage in supporting the constitutional and legislative reforms of the region, including in Kazakhstan, via our Thematic Programme on Human Rights and Democracy (MAAP 2022-24). Through this new action, the Venice Commission will accompany and support constitutional and legislative reforms in the region, contributing significantly to the strengthening of the rule of law, the separation of powers, and human rights protection.

Looking at the multilateral level, the EU is also a staunch supporter of a strong multilateral human rights system and supports the independence and effectiveness of the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).  In 2022, the EU was the second largest donor to OHCHR with a total contribution of USD 29.8 million, including 17% of un-earmarked support.

To highlight one additional aspect, let me also emphasise my belief that it is crucial that young people speak up for human rights, and it is crucial for us to give them a voice and listen to what they have to say. As today’s change-makers and tomorrow’s leaders and policymakers, youth has a crucial role to play in safeguarding universal rights, and to create a world that respects and values the dignity and worth of every individual. This is why the EU has worked very closely with UN youth advisors on Human Rights to organise the 25^th EU-NGO Forum on Human Rights in Brussels right now, gathering 150 young Human Rights Defenders from all over the world.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

As we commemorate the 75^th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, let us carry forward its spirit and principles into our efforts to create a healthy planet for current and future generations.

Allow me to conclude by expressing my gratitude to the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Kazakhstan for inviting to this event and to all of you for your interest and active participation.

Thank you for your attention.