30 Years of Peace and Stability: Reflecting on Kazakhstan’s People’s Assembly
The Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan, a pillar of unity and harmony in the country, celebrated its 30th anniversary in Astana on March 5. Marat Azilkhanov, deputy chairman and head of the secretariat of the assembly, emphasized the vital role the organization has played in maintaining peace amidst Kazakhstan’s diverse ethnic landscape.
With around 100 ethnic groups calling Kazakhstan home, the country faced doubts about its ability to manage cultural diversity without conflict. However, Azilkhanov pointed out that Kazakhstan has successfully demonstrated that cultural diversity can strengthen a nation rather than divide it.
Established in 1995 and granted constitutional status in 2007, the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan has evolved into a political and administrative powerhouse. Renamed from the Assembly of Nations to symbolize unity, the assembly now includes various ethnic groups under a single umbrella, with the Kazakh ethnos at the core.
Today, the assembly serves as a hub for 4,000 organizations and 50,000 participants, promoting Kazakhstan’s rich cultural heritage and fostering national unity. The Mothers’ Council, in particular, has been instrumental in supporting women in difficult life situations through mothers’ homes across the country.
Bakytzhan Temirbolat, director of the Presidential Center of Kazakhstan, highlighted the assembly’s three-decade journey as a testament to the country’s commitment to national unity, mutual respect, and constructive dialogue. Kazakhstan’s adherence to the principle of ‘unity in diversity’ underscores its dedication to respecting the national and religious sentiments of its people.
As Kazakhstan continues to embrace its cultural diversity and celebrate its rich heritage, the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan stands as a beacon of unity and cooperation in the country.
