Kazakhstan to train instructors in psychological resilience and de-escalation for police officers

July 14, 2026

Female presenter in a patterned top speaks to seated audience in a conference room. — Photo: UNDP Kazakhstan/ Iris Mambur

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Kazakhstan, in partnership with the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan and with financial support from the Office of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) of the U.S. Embassy in Astana, has launched an intensive four-day Training of Trainers (ToT) programme. The programme is designed to strengthen the psychological resilience of police officers, helping them perform their duties more effectively and maintain their well-being in demanding professional environments.

Smiling woman in a blue shirt seated in a crowded room.

Four young women sit in red auditorium seats at a class or event, smiling at the camera.

Smiling man in a white shirt and purple tie sits at a table in a busy conference setting.

Woman in a light blue blouse speaks to a group in a conference room.

Three women sit on a red couch; central woman gestures as she speaks.

Man in a white shirt and glasses sits at a conference table in a sunlit meeting room.

Photo: UNDP Kazakhstan/ Iris Mambur

From 13 to 16 July, a team of invited experts will train regional psychologists and faculty members of departmental higher education institutions in advanced practices. Rather than relying on traditional lectures, the programme focuses on stress management and burnout prevention, crisis counselling and emergency support for personnel following critical and traumatic incidents, the development of emotional intelligence, and peaceful conflict resolution skills when interacting with the public.

An important component of the training is the scaling up of knowledge and experience. Participants will be equipped to develop their own educational programmes and subsequently train police personnel in their respective regions.

Group of women standing together in a room; central woman in striped sleeveless top smiles.

Photo: UNDP Kazakhstan/ Iris Mambur

Opening the event, Amina Almagambetova, Deputy Head of the Personnel Policy Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Kazakhstan, emphasized:

“Safeguarding the psychological well-being of police officers is essential for maintaining their professionalism and psychological resilience. Particular attention should be paid to the continuous professional development of trainers who can not only strengthen their own competencies but also transfer modern knowledge and practical experience to their colleagues in the regions.”

Photograph of a woman speaking at a podium with a United Nations banner behind her. — Photo: UNDP Kazakhstan/ Iris Mambur

In turn, Sukhrob Khojimatov, UNDP Kazakhstan Resident Representative ad interim, highlighted the strategic importance of the course:

“Psychological support services play a crucial role in maintaining a positive working environment within law enforcement agencies. Effective policing begins with the internal resources of its personnel, and their psychological well-being forms the foundation of quality service and public trust.”

Photograph of a man at a podium with a United Nations banner behind. — Photo: UNDP Kazakhstan/ Iris Mambur

Upon completion of the course, participants will acquire not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills. They will learn to identify signs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and chronic stress among personnel at an early stage, apply specialized diagnostic tools (including the Erik Wartegg Test), and deliver professional de-escalation training. These competencies will enable them to provide high-quality support to police officers who work every day to ensure public safety.

Audience of adults seated in a conference room, listening attentively.

Photograph of a man in a suit speaking at a podium, with a UNDP banner in the background.

Photograph of a man with glasses in a dark shirt, resting his chin on his hand in a meeting room.

Photo: UNDP Kazakhstan/ Iris Mambur

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