Dr. Sholpan Saimova, Head of the Center for Public Legislation and State Governance and a PhD holder, actively participated in developing recommendations for the Republic of Kazakhstan's Third Concept of Local Self-Government for 2025–2030. The conference, organized under the "Participatory Governance – Shared Responsibility" project by the Desenta Public Foundation with support from USAID, brought together experts from governmental and civil sectors, NGO representatives, and activists.
In her address, Dr. Saimova emphasized the importance of clearly delineating functions between local self-government bodies (LSGs) and state authorities. She noted that to eliminate ambiguities and prevent duplication of powers, it is necessary to introduce specific legislative provisions defining the exclusive competencies of LSGs and their interaction spheres with state bodies. This clear separation will help minimize conflicts of interest and enhance the effectiveness of collaboration.
Dr. Saimova also highlighted the need to empower LSGs with authorities over issues such as territory improvement, approval of local budgets, and regulation of advertising placement. These measures would enable LSGs to make prompt decisions without requiring approval from state authorities, thereby improving the quality of local governance.
Special attention was given to involving citizens in monitoring legal violations, such as non-payment for solid household waste disposal or non-compliance with pet ownership regulations. Swift responses to such violations and the transfer of information to authorized bodies for imposing fines will help replenish local budgets, with the proceeds directed toward territorial development.
The recommendations prepared by the experts were submitted to the Ministry of National Economy of the Republic of Kazakhstan and will be considered in the development of the Third Concept of Local Self-Government. This document will become a key program for the further development of the local governance system in the country.
