Kazakhstan has recently undergone the review of its national report on the implementation of obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Could you tell us about this process?

On June 24–25, 2025, in Geneva, as part of the 144th session of the UN Human Rights Committee, Kazakhstan’s Third Periodic Report on the implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights was reviewed.

The delegation was headed by Vice Minister of Justice Botagoz Zhaxelekova and included deputy heads and representatives of key state bodies.

The delegation presented Kazakhstan’s main achievements over the past nine years, with a particular focus on reforms aimed at further democratization, the protection of citizens’ rights and freedoms, and the strengthening of the rule of law.

UN Committee experts paid particular attention to the practical implementation of these reforms. The discussions covered large-scale initiatives introduced by the Head of State in areas such as human rights protection, the rule of law, and legislative changes concerning the prevention of torture and ill-treatment, the protection of the rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of association, the promotion of press freedom and journalists’ rights, as well as efforts to combat human trafficking and domestic violence.

It is also worth noting that during the dialogue, Committee experts raised questions on issues not covered by the reporting period (2016 to 2025), including the investigation of the events in Zhanaozen in 2011. Comprehensive responses to these questions were provided by members of the delegation.

Following the review, Committee experts highlighted the systematic approach and openness demonstrated by the delegation. They commended Kazakhstan’s efforts in conducting investigations related to the January events, the progress made in upholding the rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of speech, and improvements to the prison system.

The delegation reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s commitment to open dialogue and the continued advancement of human rights standards.

What results has Kazakhstan achieved as a party to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights?

During the reporting period, Kazakhstan undertook large-scale reforms that impacted the lives and interests of every Kazakh citizen.

The country transitioned from a super-presidential model to a more balanced political system with an enhanced role for Parliament. Party registration procedures were simplified, and a 30% quota was introduced for women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

A Constitutional Court was re-established, allowing citizens to directly appeal to it. The authority of the Ombudsman was elevated to the level of constitutional law. In addition, ombudspersons for the rights of the child and for vulnerable groups are now operating in the regions.

Important legislation was adopted, including the Law on Peaceful Assemblies, which introduced a notification-based procedure; the Law on Petitions; and a new Mass Media Law that expands journalists’ rights.

Penalties for crimes against children were significantly toughened, including the introduction of life imprisonment for the rape of minors.

Restrictions on women’s labor were abolished, and both the Social Code and the Law on the Protection of Women and Children were enacted.

Oversight of detention facilities was strengthened, and the authority of the National Preventive Mechanism was expanded. The investigation of torture cases was transferred to the Prosecutor’s Office, which has led to a decline in such incidents. Victims of torture now receive compensation through a special fund.

Kazakhstan abolished the death penalty, ratified key international protocols, and established an interdepartmental working group to implement UN recommendations. These measures reflect a systematic commitment to building a fair, rule-of-law-based state.

How would you assess the activity of the non-governmental sector during the recent review?

Representatives of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) actively contributed to the review process. In the lead-up to the session, 22 alternative reports were submitted to the UN Human Rights Committee by both local and international NGOs, demonstrating a strong civic engagement within Kazakhstan’s civil society.

Notably, NGO representatives also participated directly during the review. They took part in a dedicated session with Committee experts in Geneva to discuss key issues and were present in the room during the formal review process.

Furthermore, on June 23, on the eve of the review, a side event titled “Combating Domestic Violence in Kazakhstan” was held, organized by the Commissioner for Human Rights in partnership with the NGO “Legal Center for Women’s Initiatives ‘Sana Sezim.’” The event aimed to present key initiatives for protecting women’s rights. It also highlighted the background and rationale behind the criminalization of domestic violence in Kazakhstan, as well as the contributions of human rights defenders, scholars, and civil society in promoting a culture of zero tolerance for violence.

Ms. Kaltaeva, you have been actively working for years on inclusion and the protection of the rights of vulnerable groups. In your opinion, what are the most significant changes that have taken place in this field in Kazakhstan in recent years, and what further steps must be taken to achieve full inclusion?

In recent years, Kazakhstan has implemented important institutional reforms aimed at strengthening the rights of vulnerable groups. In 2023, the country ratified the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

A new position—the Ombudsman for the Rights of Socially Vulnerable Groups—was established.

Also in 2023, Kazakhstan adopted a new Social Code, which includes provisions on the social protection of persons with disabilities. The Code guarantees equality and non-discrimination across all spheres of life. State social benefits were increased by 15%, and a new allowance was introduced for convicted persons who care for prisoners with disabilities.

In my view, one of the most significant achievements is the transfer of medical services in the penitentiary system to the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Health. This change has improved access to quality medical care for convicted persons, including those with disabilities.

Achieving full inclusion will require continued effort. I am confident that government agencies, in close cooperation with civil society, will continue to take effective measures to improve the quality of life of persons with disabilities and ensure their full social integration.