The International Volunteer Forum was held in Balkhash from June 19 to 20. The event was part of the International Year of Volunteers, declared by the UN at the initiative of Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, and the annual Balkhash Tour Fest 2026.

The forum brought together representatives of volunteer organizations and youth leaders from Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, India, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Turkey, and Uzbekistan.

As part of the business program, participants discussed current issues related to the development of the volunteer movement, the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and international youth cooperation.

Particular attention was paid to the environmental agenda. The forum program included climate-related interactive activities, presentations of successful volunteer initiatives, as well as cleanups and tree planting events.

One of the significant events was the grand opening of the small architectural structure "Balkhash Zholbarystary," dedicated to the development of the volunteer movement and youth civic engagement.

On the second day of the forum, the "Moldir Bulaq" environmental campaign took place, during which participants cleaned the shoreline of Lake Balkhash, sorted waste, installed eco-friendly bins, and monitored the water's condition. Guests also enjoyed an exhibition of the Balkhash fish ecosystem.

The forum concluded with a summing-up ceremony and an awards ceremony for the most active volunteers.

The event was organized by the Akimat of the Karaganda Region with the support of the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan.