SIC Group USA, in collaboration with IGAPA, hosted a comprehensive discussion on lobbyism in Kazakhstan. The conference addressed the legal status of the Government Relations (GR) industry and lobbying, mechanisms for fostering dialogue between business, government, and society, current trends in the industry, essential tools for effective lobbying and GR, and the application of global practices in Kazakhstan. Additionally, the discussion highlighted the strategies for Kazakhstan businesses to engage in lobbying abroad, the importance of developing a professional community, and the opportunities for collaboration between foreign partners and GR and lobbying specialists in Kazakhstan. Various stakeholders, including public politicians, executive representatives, industry organizations, law firms, GR directors from major companies, and business associations, shared their perspectives.
Key Speakers
Kateryna Odarchenko: A partner at SIC Group USA, Kateryna Odarchenko is a seasoned practitioner with eight years of experience in organizing political campaigns and winning elections in Ukraine and several countries in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. She is the author of the bestseller “The Game of Elections” and a member of the World Association of Relations with Authorities. Odarchenko is currently based in Washington, D.C.
Kazybek Shaikh: Founder of the GR Club in Kazakhstan, Shaikh is also the president of the National Association of Cooperatives and Other Forms of Economic Communities of the Republic of Kazakhstan and a member of the Presidium of the Public Council of the Ministry of Industry and Infrastructure Development of Kazakhstan.
Yernur Kerimbekov: Senior Officer of Investor Relations at Air Astana, Kerimbekov brings valuable insights from the aviation industry’s perspective on GR and lobbying practices.
This event provided a platform for in-depth discussions and exchange of ideas on enhancing the effectiveness of lobbying and GR efforts in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, promoting transparency, and fostering stronger ties between the government, business, and society.