On October 21-22, 2024, Astana, Kazakhstan, hosted the 13th International Forum on the Electronic Apostille Program (e-APP). The event was organized by the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Kazakhstan and Maqsut Narikbayev University, under the auspices of the Hague Conference on Private International Law (HCCH). Approximately 300 participants attended, including representatives from 70 States that have ratified the Apostille Convention, as well as three countries that have yet to join.
The forum was inaugurated by HCCH Secretary General Dr. Christophe Bernasconi, who highlighted the critical role of electronic apostilles in modernizing document legalization. He also underscored the Apostille Convention’s practical and economic significance, noting that it saves participating countries around half a billion euros annually. “This e-APP forum marks our first in-person gathering since 2019, when the 11th forum was held in Fortaleza, Brazil. It is especially gratifying to return to face-to-face meetings and witness such strong participation,” Bernasconi remarked.
Kazakhstan’s Minister of Justice, Azamat Eskarayev, emphasized the importance of electronic apostilles in simplifying the process of obtaining official documents. “We are committed to developing secure and efficient methods for recognizing official documents, which are crucial for the growth of international business, science, culture, and other sectors. Kazakhstan takes pride in leading the way in implementing these technologies to deliver high-quality public services to both citizens and businesses,” he said. Eskarayev also stressed that the forum’s goal was to facilitate the exchange of international expertise in electronic apostille implementation and to address practical challenges. He noted that the primary purpose of the electronic apostille is to protect the rights of individuals abroad.
The forum featured presentations by representatives from Chile, South Korea, Brazil, Greece, and other countries. Participants recommended that States party to the 1961 Hague Convention integrate electronic apostille systems with national registries, enhance verification mechanisms for electronic signatures and seals, and promote awareness of e-apostille benefits among the public.
UIHJ was represented by Aidos Imanbayev, special advisor to the president.
