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A round table discussion on the key provisions of the draft law On the Civil Service of the Republic of Kazakhstan was held at Maqsut Narikbayev University (MNU). Representatives of MNU’s management and academic staff, government agencies, members of the Mazhilis of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, legal scholars, and experts exchanged views on the main approaches proposed in the draft legislation.
The draft law was developed as part of the implementation of the Concept for the Development of the Civil Service of the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2024–2029. The document proposes the introduction of the concept of impeccable reputation, mechanisms for horizontal promotion of Corps B employees within the same role, and standards enabling civil servants to make managerial decisions in defence of state and societal interests—free from fear of liability or excessive bureaucracy. According to Darkhan Zhazykbai, Chairman of the Agency for Civil Service Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the bill redefines the mission, objectives, and requirements of the civil service.
“The fundamental principle of the Head of State, ‘Not a man for the state, but the state for the man,’ necessitates that the public administration functions in an open and people-centred manner. The new draft law envisions a client-oriented model of conduct for civil servants. It is proposed that key values such as patriotism, transparency, professionalism, commitment to service, and zero tolerance for misconduct be enshrined in legislation,” stated Darkhan Zhazykbai.
It is worth noting that the bill aims to abolish internal competitions to broaden the talent pool and proposes the creation of an early professional orientation institute to attract gifted young people. Professors from Maqsut Narikbayev University also contributed to the discussion. Talgat Narikbayev, Chairman of the MNU Board, stressed the importance of debating the draft law, which seeks to enhance the civil service.
“The draft law includes significant changes, such as clarifying the status of elected mayors, introducing a personnel information system, ensuring open recruitment for senior positions, and strengthening social protections for civil servants. Additionally, proposals to elevate the status of the Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan aim to improve the quality of professional training,” said Talgat Narikbayev.
Participants of the round table agreed that the proposed legislative initiatives would contribute to enhancing the effectiveness of the state apparatus and increasing public trust in government institutions. Following the event, experts expressed their readiness to offer scientific and expert support.
