OSCE Centre in Astana conducts anti-trafficking training seminar for judges
ASTANA, 29 November 2011 – A two-day OSCE-organized training seminar for judges on good legislative and judicial practices to combat trafficking in human-beings began in Astana today.
The seminar was organized by the OSCE Centre in Astana in co-operation with the Academy of Public Administration, the Supreme Court and the US embassy in Kazakhstan.
Experts from Italy, the Russian Federation and Kazakhstan will share international and national expertise in combating trafficking in human beings and good practices on how the judicial protection of victims could be enhanced in line with international standards.
During the seminar some 35 judges from courts across Kazakhstan and the Supreme Court will review the current situation regarding human trafficking in Kazakhstan, including national legislation, difficulties in proving in court crimes related to trafficking, trends and practices used by courts to identify trafficking victims and international good practices on compensation mechanisms for victims of trafficking. The participants will also discuss ways to further enhance co-operation between law enforcement and judicial authorities and civil society.
Jeannette Kloetzer, the Acting Head of the OSCE Centre in Astana, said: “The responsibilities of criminal justice systems do not lie exclusively in punishing offenders, but above all in respecting and restoring the human rights and dignity of victims of trafficking. In this regard it is crucial to focus on protecting the legitimate interests of human trafficking victims.”
Tolebay Kozhan, Judge of the Supreme Court said: “Reviewing judicial practices in criminal human trafficking cases is an effective way of enhancing the quality of judicial decisions. This will significantly help to improve how such crimes are approached and will help judges avoid misconceptions.”
The event is part of the OSCE Centre’s longstanding efforts to improve the protection of trafficking victims. The Centre assists both the Government and civil society of Kazakhstan in improving national practices in combating human trafficking and in bringing national legislation in line with international standards.