Financial Intelligence Units in Kazakhstan Receive Boost to Combat Economic Crime

Strengthening Capacities to Fight Economic Crime

The Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs) of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan recently participated in a three-day workshop organized by the Council of Europe’s Action on “Promoting Transparency and Action against Economic Crime” in Central Asia. The event took place from April 16-18 in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic.

Enhancing Skills and Knowledge

The workshop brought together 28 analysts from the FIUs to enhance their skills and knowledge in conducting operational and strategic analysis in the areas of anti-money laundering (AML) and combating financing of terrorism. Through discussions and exchange of experience, participants gained insights into various aspects of the process, including:

• Setting up relevant structures and procedures
• Using available data effectively
• Prioritizing analysis
• Leveraging IT tools
• Fostering inter-agency cooperation

Presentations on Latest Trends and Good Practices

The event also featured presentations on the latest trends and good practices from other jurisdictions in performing operational and strategic analysis. FIU specialists worked on specific case studies designed to help them understand different aspects of analyses to be conducted.

Initiative Under the Central Asia Rule of Law Programme 2020-2024

This initiative is part of the Central Asia Rule of Law Programme 2020-2024, a joint project co-funded by the European Union and the Council of Europe, implemented by the latter. The programme aims to strengthen capacities to fight and prevent economic crime in five Central Asian countries: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

Expected Impact

The workshop is expected to have a positive impact on the FIUs’ ability to conduct effective analysis and ultimately contribute to the prevention of economic crime in the region.