OSCE High Commissioner Delivered a Guest Lecture
OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities (HCNM) Christophe Kamp delivered a guest lecture at NU on the topic: “Language, Identity, and Social Cohesion: The HCNM’s Perspective on Integration Policies.”
The HCNM is one of the key institutions of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). Its mandate is to provide early warning and early action to prevent ethnic tensions from developing into conflict. Acting as a mediator, the High Commissioner applies quiet diplomacy to foster stability, peace, and social cohesion across the OSCE region. The session was opened with welcoming remarks from Dr. Helene Thibault, Department Chair of Political Science and International Relations, School of Sciences and Humanities.
In his lecture, Mr. Kamp emphasized the importance of inclusive approaches to managing diversity and protecting the rights of minorities as a foundation for lasting stability and peace. He also underscored Kazakhstan’s distinctive achievements in fostering interethnic harmony and safeguarding the linguistic and cultural rights of minority communities. Mr. Kamp praised the tangible outcomes of the country’s policies in this area and expressed hope for expanding cooperation and coordinating joint actions in the framework of upcoming reforms.
The High Commissioner further shared his perspectives and priorities in reducing interethnic tensions and preventing conflicts at an early stage. He highlighted the crucial role of dialogue, consultations, and practical measures in ensuring peace and cohesion across the OSCE region.
The lecture gave NU students and faculty a valuable opportunity to engage directly with the High Commissioner, gaining first-hand insights into the OSCE’s role in addressing minority rights, integration policies, and conflict prevention.
The visit to NU took place in the context of his participation in the VIII Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, held in Astana on 17–18 September 2025. The Congress, centered on peace as humanity’s most essential value, once again confirmed Kazakhstan’s role as a platform for global dialogue and interfaith cooperation.
