Kazakistan
Human Rights Watch has raised significant concerns regarding Kazakhstan's proposed constitutional amendments, highlighting potential threats to human rights and the concentration of executive power. The draft, published on January 31, 2026, suggests changes to approximately 80% of the current constitution. Authorities have portrayed these amendments as necessary for ensuring 'law and order' and modernizing the political framework. However, critics argue that the reforms could undermine fundamental rights and weaken checks on executive authority.
In response to public criticism, law enforcement has reportedly intimidated and arrested journalists, lawyers, and social media users. For instance, in early February, an Almaty court fined an individual for allegedly disseminating 'false information' after posting critical comments about the draft on Facebook. Additionally, police have visited and questioned several journalists who posted critical commentary on social media, in some cases pressuring them to delete their posts.
Human Rights Watch emphasizes that genuine constitutional reform should strengthen rights protections and be shaped through an open and transparent process, rather than being used to concentrate power or silence dissent. The organization calls for inclusive and pluralistic public discussions on the amendments, free from policing or intimidation.
The draft constitution is set to be put to a vote in a referendum scheduled for March 15, 2026. As the date approaches, both domestic and international observers are closely monitoring the situation, urging Kazakh authorities to ensure that the process respects human rights and democratic principles.
