On 30 September – 1 October 2026, Aigerim Jaldybayeva, Executive Director of the Kazakhstan Bar Association (KazBar), attended the Opening of the Legal Year 2026 events in London, bringing together representatives of the judiciary and legal professional organisations from the United Kingdom and other countries.

On 30 September, the programme included an international discussion entitled “What can we do to stand up for the rule of law?”, focusing on safeguarding and promoting the rule of law. Participants discussed the role of the legal profession in raising public awareness of the importance of this principle, responding to contemporary challenges and strengthening cooperation across jurisdictions.

The discussion also highlighted the need to expand legal education and public awareness initiatives, including through social media platforms widely used by young people. Particular emphasis was placed on fostering legal awareness from an early age, including through school education, and improving children’s and young people’s understanding of their rights and the fundamentals of the legal system.

As part of the programme, meetings were held with representatives of legal professional associations from various countries. Key topics included professional ethics, disciplinary practice, the regulation of the legal profession, engagement with association members, legal education and continuing professional development. These meetings helped establish new professional contacts and explore opportunities for cooperation in these areas. According to the list of participants, KazBar was the only representative from Central Asia.

On 1 October, Aigerim Jaldybayeva attended the formal Opening of the Legal Year ceremony at Westminster Abbey. The ceremony brought together representatives of the senior judiciary of England and Wales, leaders of legal professional organisations, solicitors, barristers and other members of the legal community. The ceremony was followed by a reception hosted by the Lord Chancellor at Westminster Hall in the UK Parliament.

KazBar’s participation in events of this standing contributes to strengthening its professional ties with the Law Society of England and Wales and advancing international cooperation. In particular, subject to meeting the applicable requirements, KazBar members may be eligible for exemption from Part 2 of the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE2). The legal framework of the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), based on the principles and laws of England and Wales, as well as the development of a special legal regime for the city of Alatau, underscore the relevance of studying the corresponding legal experience.

Participation in the Opening of the Legal Year 2026 provided an opportunity to strengthen KazBar’s international professional networks and continue dialogue on the development of the legal profession, improvement of its regulatory frameworks, public legal education and promotion of the rule of law.