Launch of Urban Policy Development Initiative Happens at Nationwide Urban Forum in Kazakhstan
The First National Urban Forum of Kazakhstan (NUF2025), held in Kyzylorda on July 8, marked the launch of Kazakhstan's national urban policy development. The event, themed "First National Urban Forum - A New Chapter for the Urban Agenda," brought together representatives from central and local government bodies, international organisations, the expert community, and the private sector.
During the forum, participants reaffirmed their commitment to jointly develop and implement solutions aimed at building inclusive, sustainable, and climate-neutral urban spaces. The NUF served as an effective platform for exchanging international experience and a step toward advancing sustainable urbanization in Kazakhstan and Central Asia.
Kazakhstan, the most urbanized country in Central Asia with nearly 62% of its population living in urban areas, is focusing on creating sustainable, inclusive environments for its growing urban population. The forum likely emphasized sustainable urban planning to accommodate this high level of urbanization.
Climate adaptation strategies were also discussed, as Kazakhstan faces significant environmental challenges, including land degradation and climate change impacts. Urban policies often incorporate measures to mitigate these issues.
Digitization is a key component of Kazakhstan's urban development strategy, as seen in projects like Alatau, which aims to integrate advanced technologies such as cryptocurrency payment systems and drone taxis. This focus on digitization is likely part of the broader urban development strategy.
The development of Alatau, a new city near Almaty, is envisioned as a key trade hub and driver of regional growth, especially with China. Such initiatives align with the goal of fostering economic growth across different regions of Kazakhstan.
Special attention was given to the role of small and medium-sized cities as drivers of regional growth. Kazakh First Deputy Foreign Minister Akan Rakhmetullin emphasized the importance of partnering with UN-Habitat to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and improve citizens' quality of life.
The forum focused on priorities such as inclusive planning, climate adaptation, digitization of urban management, and financing urban transformation. The event featured thematic sessions, panel discussions, and a bilateral meeting between Rakhmetullin and Acting Deputy Executive Director of UN-Habitat Rafael Tuts.
Hosting the first NUF in Kyzylorda was an important step toward creating a balanced and modern urban policy that reflects the interests of all regions and draws on the best international practices. The proceedings of the forum were documented by gov.kz, according to the provided photo credit. The event was reported by the Kazakh Foreign Ministry's press service.
The NUF2025 is part of broader efforts to address urban challenges and opportunities in Kazakhstan. While specific outcomes and strategies from the forum are not fully detailed in the available information, it is clear that the First National Urban Forum of Kazakhstan is a significant step towards enhancing urban development, sustainability, and economic growth nationwide.
- Recognizing the importance of digital innovation and sustainable urban planning, the participants at the First National Urban Forum of Kazakhstan (NUF2025) underscored the role of technology in education and self-development, particularly in environmental science, as they strive to build inclusive, climate-neutral cities.
- In line with Kazakhstan's national urban policy development, the emphasis on environmental-science education at the NUF2025 serves as a crucial step in creating a workforce equipped to address the environmental challenges faced by Kazakhstan and Central Asia, and to drive sustainable urbanization in the region.
