ASTANA — President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev highlighted the growing civic engagement of citizens, the vital role of youth and human capital, and the public’s central role in constitutional reform, describing these pillars as essential to building a just, safe, and forward-looking Kazakhstan amid global uncertainty during the Jan. 30 Volunteers Forum.
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev speaks at the Jan. 30 Volunteers Forum, highlighting the growing role of citizens and youth in building a just and forward-looking Kazakhstan. Photo credit: Akorda.
“Kazakhstan supports the desire of our citizens to become volunteers and engage in socially beneficial work. While there were 50,000 volunteers in Kazakhstan in 2020, today there are already 300,000,” Tokayev said, noting the rapid expansion of the volunteer movement.
One national and 20 regional front offices are now operating across the country, while the number of organizations engaged in socially beneficial activities has nearly quadrupled to more than 800, reported Akorda.
“I sincerely believe in the creative power of youth – in each and every one of you. At this stage, it is important to maintain the momentum and move forward, responding to modern challenges,” he said.
Turning to constitutional reform, Tokayev stressed the Constitution’s fundamental role as the country’s core legal document.
“The Constitution is the primary guideline and fundamental document of any country. Every citizen must know and respect its provisions,” he said.
He added that even minor amendments should be adopted only through a nationwide referendum, which he said would strengthen civil rights.
A special commission reviewed a wide range of proposals, resulting in carefully considered changes affecting virtually all key sections of the Constitution, including its Preamble. Tokayev highlighted the importance of embedding humanitarian values into the constitutional framework, emphasizing human rights, the value of human capital, and opportunities for citizens to realize their potential. Particular attention was also paid to the development of science, education, and innovation.
“Our country’s task in this new historical period is not simply to adapt to the digital age, but to clearly define the vector of progress to put artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies at the service of our society,” he said.
Concluding his remarks, Tokayev emphasized unity, responsibility, and resilience in the face of global instability. He noted that despite increasing global conflicts, Kazakhstan remains on a path of sustainable development. He also stressed that the country’s future relies on its citizens.
“We have no other homeland than Kazakhstan. No one from outside will come and make our country better. Only we can build a strong and advanced Kazakhstan,” he said.
