"Local self-government principles help local authorities regulate and manage a substantial share of public affairs under their own responsibility and in the interests of the local population. Increasing the capability of local councils in this area has a direct impact on building citizens’ trust in local authorities. Communication with the public and central authorities is part of consolidating this trust," said Hugo Karlsson, the Head of the OSCE Centre’s Field Office in Osh.

Davletbek Alimbekov, the Chairman of Osh city council, added: "Such training is a strong step towards building the capacity of local councils to properly meet citizens’ needs."

The two-day course will train 45 members of local councils from Osh city, Kara-Suu district and Jalal-Abad city and is part of a local self-government initiative of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek Similar training courses have been held for local councils in Naryn, Issyk-Kul and Talas provinces.