UNDP and the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of Kazakhstan sign letter of intent to strengthen social protection system

January 29, 2026
Nine officials stand behind a conference table in a formal meeting room, with flags and an emblem.
Photo: Press service of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan

The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) signed a Letter of Intent, to reaffirm their commitment to deepen collaboration aimed at strengthening and modernizing the social and labor system in Kazakhstan. This agreement marks a significant step towards fostering a sustainable, inclusive, and digital social protection framework in the country.

The partnership is focused on supporting the development of a flexible, economically sound and equitable social protection system capable of responding effectively to current and emerging socio-economic challenges. Key areas of cooperation include the development and implementation of the Social Policy Concept for 2026–2030, the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize social services, and providing assistance to socially vulnerable groups.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Askarbek Yertayev, Minister of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan, highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships in strengthening national social systems.

“For many years, the UNDP has remained a key strategic partner for the Ministry, allowing access to international expertise and experience. This Letter of Intent will become the foundation for work in such areas as the modernization of the social protection system with an emphasis on the introduction of artificial intelligence, the transformation of the labor market, the development of an inclusive society, migration processes, and others,”
he said.
Officials seated at a long conference table with microphones and documents, green curtains behind.
Photo: Press service of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Katarzyna Wawiernia, UNDP Resident Representative in Kazakhstan, emphasized UNDP’s continued support for Kazakhstan’s social policy reforms. 

“UNDP is pleased to deepen its collaboration with the Ministry to support the development of a people centered social protection system. By combining policy innovation, digital solutions, and targeted support for vulnerable populations, we aim to contribute to sustainable and inclusive development that leaves no one behind,”
she noted.
Professionals seated at a conference table with papers, nameplates, water bottles, and blue flags.
Photo: Press service of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan

This Letter of Intent serves as the foundation for a broader and more strategic partnership, with both parties expressing their readiness to jointly mobilize and effectively utilize resources to support the implementation of agreed initiatives.

The agreement highlights the shared vision of both organizations in working together to achieve Sustainable Development Goals and to further strengthen Kazakhstan’s social protection system in line with the needs and aspirations of its population.