MAY 1, 2026 — KOSTANAY — An escalating dispute has emerged in the Torgay region involving two media outlets, as well as a conflict between a local Kazakh-language media organisation and Ms Aleksandra Sergazinova, a sitting member of the regional maslikhat (local representative body). The non-governmental organisation ‘Human Rights Centre of Kostanay Region’ has been formally approached by the newspaper Torgai Tynysy with a petition for legal and informational assistance. The submission details allegations of structural unfairness in the allocation of state budgetary support intended for media organisations, specifically concerning the alleged promotion of the interests of specific individuals. [1]
MAY 2, 2026 — SHYMKENT — A matter of significant concern regards the arbitrary detention of Mr Baibaryss Raimbekov, a prominent automotive commentator who publishes under the pseudonym Ruslan Zhanpeissov. Following an initial acquittal at first instance, the appellate court subsequently overturned the verdict, sentencing Mr Raimbekov to 15 days’ administrative detention. The appellate tribunal found Mr Raimbekov liable under Article 667 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Republic of Kazakhstan, which penalises the alleged failure to comply with the lawful instructions or demands of law enforcement officers. The material facts demonstrate that the conduct in question consisted of live-streaming police operations. Whilst the defendant maintained that his broadcasting activities were intended to provide objective informational support to law enforcement, the court construed this exercise of journalistic expression as a grave administrative offence, escalating ordinary civic oversight into a punishable infraction. [2]
MAY 2, 2026 — KOSTANAY — An inquiry was instituted into the conduct of Major Nariman Ismagambetov, a district inspector within the Auliekol District. Following the internal investigation, disciplinary sanctions were imposed upon the officer in respect of his unlawful compilation of an administrative offences record against Mr Nikolai Ginyatov, Chairman of the non-governmental organisation ‘Human Rights Centre of Kostanay Region’. The impropriety of the officer’s actions had previously been established by an order of the Auliekol District Court. [3]
MAY 4, 2026 — VIENNA, Austria — The non-governmental organisation, Freedom for Eurasia, has issued a formal condemnation of the defamation proceedings instituted by Mr Gadzhi Gadzhiyev against Ms Natalia Sadykova before the Ukrainian courts. Ms Sadykova currently resides within Ukraine under a grant of political asylum, following the targeted assassination of her husband, Mr Aydos Sadykov, in that jurisdiction. The organisation submits that the civil action brought by Mr Gadzhiyev does not constitute a bona fide claim for the vindication of reputation. Rather, it bears the hallmarks of a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP). This litigation is characterised as a a legally dressed abuse of judicial process, designed primarily not to obtain a legitimate remedy, but to exhaust the financial resources, intimidate, and compel the silence of the investigative journalist seeking to expose the authorship of her husband’s murder. Furthermore, it is submitted that these proceedings represent a continuation of extraterritorial state-sponsored persecution, directed against the independent member of the press. [4]
MAY 4, 2026 — KOKSHETAU — The competent court acceded to the prosecution’s application for the transfer of criminal proceedings preferred against 12 officials of the Atbasar penal institution. Following the preferment of a substituted indictment, the matter was formally remitted to the Atbasar District Court for trial. The initial charge under Article 146 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Torture) was subsequently amended to Abuse of Power or Official Authority, pursuant to Article 362(4) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. [5]
MAY 4, 2026 — ALMATY — Representations have been received from Ms Akmeir Kusheyeva, the spouse of the civil activist Mr Damir Kusheyev, who is currently serving a nine-year term of imprisonment following his conviction for extortion under Article 194 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Ms Kusheyeva has formally petitioned the General Prosecutor’s Office of the Republic of Kazakhstan to initiate an inquiry into the integrity of the trial process. Specifically, the application seeks a formal examination of the empanelled jurors to determine whether the verdict was compromised by unlawful external influence or collateral pressure. [6]
MAY 5, 2026 — ORAL — Representations have been received from Mr Aslan Utepov, a prominent civil society activist currently serving a seven-year sentence of imprisonment within Institutional Facility No. 27. Mr Utepov was convicted under the Article 190(3) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Fraud on a large scale) and Article 367(3) of the same Code (Giving a large-scale bribe). Contact was established via public telecommunications infrastructure with the editorial offices of Umarov News, wherein the prisoner raised material concerns regarding arbitrary interference with his statutory entitlements. The prisoner alleges a systemic failure by the detaining authorities to administer the statutory incentives requisite for determining eligibility for early release or parole. It is reported that executive agencies conditionalised the consideration of these standard administrative incentives upon a coercive prerequisite. Specifically, Mr Utepov was required to execute a formal written undertaking to abstain from all socio-political advocacy and civil society engagement upon his release. Notwithstanding compliance with this extra-legal condition, administrative authorities subsequently expunged the prisoner’s name from the schedule of inmates approved for such incentives. [7]
MAY 5, 2026 — ASTANA — In evidence received regarding the registration of new political parties, the Deputy Minister of Justice, Ms Laura Mersalimova, noted that confirmation of an intention to establish a political party has currently been issued solely to the ‘Ädilet‘ organisation. The Ministry of Justice has confirmed that no further applications are presently pending or under active consideration. Ms Mersalimova further adduced that preceding initiatives had failed to progress through the statutory registration framework. This was attributed to the alleged non-compliance with the mandatory thresholds and formal requirements codified under the prevailing legislation governing political parties. [8]
MAY 5, 2026 — ASTANA — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the representative office of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) have concluded a formally mediated settlement agreement. In the Administrative Court, Her Honour Judge Gulnaza Toleukhanova granted judicial approval to the mediation terms, ordering that the underlying claim be dismissed accordingly, with no further order as to the determination of the substantive merits. [9]
MAY 6, 2026 — ALMATY — The Coalition of Kazakhstani NGOs Against Torture has raised grave concerns regarding the purported recourse to prohibited methods of treatment within a penal institution situated in the municipality of Atbasar. The allegations touch upon systemic compliance with international human rights standards and the absolute prohibition of torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment. Given the gravity of the assertions, there is a compelling public interest in ensuring that independent, prompt, and impartial investigations are initiated by the competent authorities to establish accountability and uphold the rule of law. [10]
MAY 7, 2026 — KYZYLORDA — Mr Muratbai Baimagambetov, an activist facing charges under Article 297(1) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, was remanded in custody on suspicion of the «unlawful acquisition and possession of controlled substances”. On 9 May, the investigating judge granted a judicial warrant authorising his pre-trial detention for a period of two months. [11]
MAY 8, 2026 — VENICE, Italy — On the eve of the official opening of the Kazakhstan Pavilion at the 61st International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, a seminal installation by Kazakh contemporary artist Ms Assel Kadyrkhanova, entitled Machine (2013), was summarily removed from display following an adverse determination by state censorship authorities. The impugned artwork sought to confront and critically interrogate the historical legacy of the Red Terror and systemic political repression during the Stalinist era. [12]
MAY 8, 2026 — ASTANA — The President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, executed a presidential decree to reconstitute the membership of the Commission on Human Rights, an advisory body established under the auspices of the Presidency. Operating in a consultative capacity, the Commission is mandated to oversee matters concerning the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms, whilst concurrently facilitating institutional engagement between state organs and civil society organisations. [13]
MAY 8, 2026 — ALMATY — The Court has extended the remand in custody pending extradition of Mr Mansur Movlayev, a Chechen human rights defender and prominent critic of the Kadyrov regime, following his initial detention in May 2025 pursuant to a request by the Russian Federation. Mr Movlayev, together with his legal representatives, opposed the application for a further two-month extension of custody, submitting that he should be admitted to bail or otherwise released on the grounds that the statutory maximum 12-month period of detention had expired. [14]
MAY 8, 2026 — PARIS, France — In consequence of the Republic of Kazakhstan’s failure to adduce necessary information, conjoined with the absence of effective domestic judicial recourse, the non-governmental organisation Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has formally referred the matter concerning the extrajudicial killing of Mr Aydos Sadykov to the United Nations Special Rapporteur Special Rapporteur on the Protection of the Rights and Freedoms of Opinion and Expression. Mr Sadykov, a prominent Kazakh journalist and co-founder of the digital media platform BASE — which regularly investigated high-level public corruption involving state authorities within Kazakhstan — succumbed to injuries on 2 July 2024. This followed a targeted assassination attempt in Kyiv, Ukraine, on 18 June 2024, wherein he sustained severe gunshot wounds. Investigative authorities in Ukraine have formally identified two suspects of Kazakh nationality, both of whom are reasonably suspected of maintaining close nexuses to the law enforcement and security apparatus of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Notwithstanding formal letters rogatory and subsequent diplomatic representations served by the Ukrainian authorities, the Government of Kazakhstan has failed to provide substantive mutual legal assistance. Consequently, the cross-border criminal investigation in Ukraine has reached a procedural impasse. Commenting upon the submission to the United Nations mechanisms, the Director of Advocacy and Assistance at RSF, Mr Antoine Bernard, observed:“The cycle of impunity must be broken. The Kazakh authorities must now respond to Ukraine’s requests and provide information about the identified Kazakh suspects in order to advance the investigation into the murder of their citizen. RSF’s referral to the UN protection mechanisms marks an important step. The objective is clear: for the United Nations to fully take up the case and hold Kazakhstan to account.” [15]
MAY 8, 2026 — AKMOLA Region — Farmer Mr Yuri Surayev from the Arshalyn District has submitted a formal petition to the President of the Republic, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, and the Akim of the Region, Mr Marat Akhmetzhanov, for executive intervention in an ongoing dispute concerning the lawful occupation of agricultural land. The complainant avers that representatives of a competing agricultural enterprise have entered upon land plots properly comprised within his freehold holding. It is alleged that these parties are currently engaged in unauthorized preparatory agricultural operations, specifically acts of ploughing, which prima facie constitute a continuing trespass to land and an infringement of established property rights. The complainant has exhausted ordinary local remedies by laying formal complaints before the relevant local executive instruments, law enforcement agencies, and the prosecutor’s office. To date, these representations have failed to elicit an effective remedy or administrative determination. Mr Surayev alleges persistent regulatory inaction on the part of certain municipal authorities. Crucially, the complainant submits that the ongoing administrative inertia is a direct consequence of improper influence, noting that an adverse party to the dispute possesses close nexuses with the former executive leadership of the relevant rural district administration. [16]
MAY 9, 2026 — ALMATY — A group of student detainees has been placed under formal criminal investigation by the Kazakh authorities following their participation in a public procession during Victory Day commemorations. The individuals in question were observed displaying the national flags of the United States and Ukraine, alongside insignia associated with the historical Alash movement. In the contemporary context, this iconography is closely aligned with the late dissident poet and recognised prisoner of conscience, Aron Atabek. Information obtained suggests that the state’s intervention may have proceeded on a flawed evidentiary footing. It appears municipal police officers misidentified the Alash insignia as the emblems of the Bozkurt («Grey Wolves«) organisation — an entity currently proscribed under Kazakh domestic counter-terrorism legislation. The competent authorities have formally initiated a pre-trial investigation. [17]
MAY 10, 2026 — ATYRAU — The spring military enlistment cycle has given rise to further representations from affected individuals, who allege that enforcement actions were summarily executed by military recruitment directorates. According to expert legal opinion submitted by Counsel Anatoly Bakhirev, the practice of apprehending individuals in public spaces without prior notification or formal justification is, in the manifest majority of instances, ultra vires and unlawful. Established administrative protocols dictate that formal enlistment procedures must be initiated exclusively through the proper service and execution of a statutory summons. Summary enforcement in the absence of such prior notification constitutes a material departure from due process. [18]
MAY 11, 2026 — VIENNA, Austria — General concern is raised regarding the ongoing extradition proceedings initiated by the Russian Federation against Mr Mansur Movlayev, a Chechen human rights defender and prominent critic of the Kadyrov administration. Representations made before OSCE participating States at the Supplementary Human Rights Meeting of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) by human rights counsel, Ms Yelena Zhigalenok, highlight severe vulnerabilities in the Kazakh domestic judicial process. This briefing assessed the compatibility of the proposed extradition with international human rights standards, specifically focusing on the non-refoulement obligations which bind OSCE participating States. [19]
MAY 11, 2026 — BRUSSELS, Belgium — In a new joint statement, International Partnership for Human Rights (IPHR), Kazakhstan International Bureau for Human Rights and Rule of Law (KIBHR), Association for Human Rights in Central Asia (AHRCA) and Turkmen Initiative for Human Rights (TIHR) have raised urgent apprehensions regarding the systematic proliferation about the escalating use of digital repression deployed to stifle dissent and curtail civic space across the Central Asian republics. The statement highlights an escalating reliance on coordinated online harassment campaigns, targeted cyberattacks, arbitrary website blocking, and internet shutdowns. Furthermore, it highlights the deployment of artificial intelligence-enabled surveillance apparatuses specifically directed against independent civil society actors and investigative media platforms. It raises particular alarm about the growing abuse of social media complaint mechanisms to secure the extrajudicial removal of independent content and systematically impede the public’s right to access to information online through vexatious, coordinated and unsubstantiated claims of violations of community rules. It further deposes that domestic criminal frameworks are being instrumentalised to stifle critical online expression. This trend manifests primarily through the preferred use of overly broad, ill-defined statutory charges — notably the dissemination of «false information» and the incitement of «public disobedience» or social discord. Alarmingly, the submission correlates online dissent with severe extra-legal reprisals, documenting instances of punitive, forcible psychiatric detention, alleged state-sanctioned ill-treatment, and acts of transnational repression executed beyond regional borders. [20]
MAY 11-12, 2026 — VIENNA, Austria — “The progressive constriction of civic space, compounded by acute funding deficits and persistent executive efforts to impose a more restrictive regulatory framework upon non-governmental organisations, directly undermines the operational capacity of human rights defenders. Within the Republic of Kazakhstan, the de facto exercise of the right to freedom of peaceful assembly remains effectively non-existent,” stated Mr Denis Dzhivaga, Director of the Kazakhstan International Bureau for Human Rights and Rule of Law (KIBHR), during an OSCE Supplementary Meeting. [21]
MAY 12, 2026 — KOKSHETAU — The preliminary hearing has commenced in the matter of Mr Amangeldy Dzhakhin, Chairman of the Organising Committee of the unregistered political party Alga Kazakhstan! Following an application by the prosecution — which cited “the purported necessity of ensuring the personal safety of trial participants and preventing the disclosure of prejudicial material that could cause harm” — the court ordered that the proceedings be held in camera. This transition to a closed hearing was strenuously opposed by both the defendant and his legal representatives. Mr Dzhakhin stands indicted under the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The specific counts preferred against him include Article 258(1), relating to the alleged financing of terrorist or extremist activities, and Article 405(2), which concerns participation in the activities of an organisation that has been proscribed by a final judicial order on the grounds of alleged extremist or terrorist involvement. [22]
MAY 12, 2026 — ASTANA — The judicial panel for administrative cases has considered an application for judicial review brought by the Appellant, Mr K. Abdykarimov, by way of appeal against the decision of the Specialised Inter-District Administrative Court of Astana, delivered on 16 April 2026. The underlying claim names as Respondents the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Central Election Commission, the Territorial Election Commission of Astana, and the Registry of the Constitutional Court. The Appellant seeks a declaration that Presidential Decree No. 1170 of 11 February 2026, which directed that a nationwide referendum be held on 15 March 2026, was ultra vires and unconstitutional. Furthermore, the Appellant seeks a declaration that the subsequent publication of the referendum results, in the absence of a formal opinion from the Constitutional Court, was unlawful and constituted a procedural impropriety. The court upheld the initial determination and dismissed the appeal. [23]
MAY 13, 2026 — ASTANA — Members of the Mazhilis have deliberated upon a series of legislative amendments and supplementary provisions directed at the statutory framework governing electoral processes. The Secretary of the Central Election Commission, Mr Shavkat Utemissov, observed that in circumstances where a digital content creator or «blogger» has not entered into a formal, legally binding contractual agreement with either a candidate or a registered political party, their promotional activities may nonetheless be construed as «covert campaigning.” Any such conduct falling within this ambit attracts strict liability and remains subject to the relevant punitive sanctions codified under Article 118 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Republic of Kazakhstan. [24]
MAY 13, 2026 — ASTANA — Representatives of the domestic media community addressed members of Parliament with an appeal stating: “We, the undersigned journalists and media practitioners, respectfully urge Members of both Houses to support the proposed amendments to the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan on Elections and the Code of Administrative Offences. These statutory revisions are directed at providing much-needed clarification on the precise grounds for administrative liability concerning infractions related to the conduct and dissemination of public opinion polls throughout electoral periods.” [25]
MAY 13, 2026 — ASTANA — A formal representation has been submitted to the Presidential Administration, the Security Council, and the Constitutional Court, urgently requesting that Executive assent be withheld from the recently enacted Responsible Treatment of Animals Bill. The signatories further petition for the invocation of presidential veto mechanisms to remit the legislative text to Parliament for comprehensive reconsideration. [26]
MAY 13, 2026 — ALMATY — Legal counsel Radmir Utepov confirmed that the Almaty Investigative Court granted a further extension of the remand in custody of Mr Sanzhar Bokayev, a prominent civic activist and entrepreneur, until 18 June 2026. Mr Bokayev remains detained under the authority of the National Security Committee pending trial. He faces indictment under several provisions of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, notably Article 340(3) (unlawful felling, destruction, or damaging of trees and shrubs) and Article 190(4) (fraud on an especially large scale). [27]
MAY 13, 2026 — ASTANA — Legislative amendments introduced by the Republic of Kazakhstan establish statutory administrative liability for online platforms failing to comply with electoral impartiality requirements. Specifically, the measures penalise the refusal to publish campaign materials and the failure to maintain a level playing field for registered candidates. Under the revised framework, online intermediaries face regulatory intervention designed to ensure equitable access to digital media during the constitutional electoral process. The rationale underpinning these enforcement mechanisms was outlined by the Minister of National Economy, Mr Serik Zhumangarin, who observed: «The Code of Administrative Offences shall prescribe liability in respect of online platforms which fail to publish campaign materials, or which otherwise introduce discriminatory conditions for candidates.” [28]
MAY 13, 2026 — ASTANA — Following a one-month period of restriction, the Facebook page of the “Legal Media Centre” has been restored to public access. This followed a prior two-week period during which the organisation’s Instagram page was similarly blocked. The restriction concerning the Facebook platform was initiated on 21 April, shortly after the disruption to the Instagram account had commenced. [29]
MAY 13, 2026 — ASTANA — The criminal investigation concerning journalist Ms Botagoz Omarova has now concluded, with the matter shortly to be remitted to the court, according to a statement by the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, Mr Sanzhar Adilov. Up to that juncture, Ms Omarova remained subject to a house arrest order, a restrictive measure operating to curtail substantially her liberty pending trial. The journalist stands charged under Article 274(2) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, an offence concerning the alleged dissemination of information known to be false and purportedly capable of occasioning public disorder. [30]
MAY 13-14, 2026 — ASTANA — The Specialised Inter-District Administrative Court recently convened for two substantive hearings in respect of the administrative claim brought by Messrs Sergei Solyanik, Mussagali Dauylov, and Ms Anara Ibrayeva against the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The claimants sought a judicial declaration that the Ministry’s refusal to disclose certain environmental information was unlawful and constituted a breach of statutory duty. Upon consideration of the preliminary issues, the Court declined to adjudicate the claim on its merits. The proceedings were accordingly struck out without prejudice, and the matter was remitted to the court of competent jurisdiction for determination. [31] [32]
MAY 13-14, 2026 — ASTANA — In a significant development for grassroots environmental advocacy, fifteen regional leaders and community activists representing rural and provincial areas convened for the first time to establish a formal civil society coalition. Central to this inaugural convention was a formal briefing with the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Right to Development, Professor Surya Deva. This initial engagement served as the catalyst for a structured, multi-tier advocacy campaign. The core mandate of this initiative is directed towards vindicating and securing compliance with the right to development, the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, and the fundamental right to life. Throughout the course of 2025, the non-governmental organisation “Kadir-Kasiyet” conducted extensive monitoring to identify systemic trends and operational patterns. These findings are intended to provide strategic indicators to support human rights defenders and local actors in litigating and safeguarding their rights to a favourable environment, to life, and to sustainable development. [33]
MAY 14, 2026 — ASTANA — A representative from the independent media outlet BES.media directed a formal inquiry to Mr Shavkat Utemissov, in his capacity as Secretary to the Central Election Commission. The core of the submission concerned the disproportionate administrative and practical impediments encountered by press agencies and media organisations in the course of electoral monitoring and reporting. In evidence, the Secretary conceded that specific systemic challenges persist within the current regulatory framework. However, he maintained that the resolution of such grievances is contingent upon the submission of formal representations, asserting that the proper recourse for affected parties lies within established statutory consultation processes. [34]
MAY 14, 2026 — ASTANA — The municipal administration withheld authorization for a peaceful assembly organized by the national association, ‘Autism Kazakhstan’. The public demonstration, which had been scheduled to take place on 16 May within the grounds of the Botanical Garden, was intended to raise public awareness concerning autism spectrum disorder and to highlight the lived experiences of autistic persons and their families. [35]
MAY 14, 2026 — KARAGANDA Region — Representations have been formally submitted to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev by Ms Oxana Bekkel, acting jointly with fellow residents of the village of Trudovoye within the Osakarov District. The petitioners seek executive intervention in respect of systemic infrastructure failures compounding local socio-economic hardship. The submission highlights acute vulnerabilities regarding the regional electricity distribution network. Persistent underinvestment has resulted in chronic grid instability and protracted power outages, which the residents contend undermine basic living standards and compromise local security. Furthermore, grave concerns have been raised touching upon the structural integrity of local transport infrastructure. Specific reference is made to a severely degraded bridge, currently deemed hazardous to public safety, alongside the widespread deterioration of the local highway network. Evidence provided by the complainants indicates that prior recourse to municipal authorities has failed to yield effective remedy. Formal correspondence from local government institutions reportedly states that remedial works cannot be executed owing to an absolute deficit in allocated budgetary appropriations. [36]
MAY 15, 2026 — ASTANA — Reports indicate that in excess of 80 families remain protracted in a state of homelessness, enduring multi-year deprivation of security of tenure and a systemic failure to realise their statutory and constitutional rights. The residential development project designated “Asker-2” has been subject to a total cessation of construction works for a period exceeding four years, compounding the vulnerability of the affected populace. In response to this prolonged regulatory and contractual failure, the aggrieved citizens have formally petitioned competent state authorities and lodged a direct appeal for executive intervention with the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. [37]
MAY 15, 2026 — AKMOLA Region — Residents of Severnaya Street, situated within the village of Karaotkel, Tselinograd District, formally petitioned the Executive Office of the President, seeking immediate intervention and requesting an urgent bilateral meeting to address ongoing civil grievances. The petitioners submitted that the locality suffers from a profound deficit in basic municipal infrastructure, specifically citing the absence of a metalled, all-weather highway and the complete omission of public street lighting. It is contended that these omissions materially impact the community’s standard of living and public safety. Following the submission of the aforementioned petition, officers of the local constabulary deployed to the area. On-site, these officers subjected residents to video surveillance and formal interrogation. Statements obtained from the attending officer of the watch indicate that this police deployment was executed pursuant to direct instructions issued by the local Akim. According to testimony provided by community legal counsel Ms Zhanna Khassenova, the affected residents perceived the arbitrary deployment of law enforcement, and the subsequent line of questioning as a calculated campaign of state-sponsored intimidation and unlawful pressure, designed to deter the petitioners from exercising their fundamental right to peaceful petition. [38] [39]
MAY 15, 2026 — ASTANA — During a roundtable examining the Republic of Kazakhstan’s implementation of the 2023 recommendations issued by the United Nations Committee against Torture (UNCAT), submissions were received from legal counsel, Ms Svetlana Kulikova, concerning the efficacy of current domestic safeguards. Particular emphasis was placed upon the acute deficit in institutional protections against the secondary victimisation of complainants, alongside the attendant risks borne by whistleblowers and individuals reporting allegations of torture or ill-treatment. Furthermore, the submissions highlighted systemic deficiencies within the extant investigative machinery, underscoring an urgent requirement to reform the mechanisms tasked with the oversight and prosecution of offences involving torture. The structural flaws in the current framework are acutely illustrated by a case in point, wherein a client of the aforementioned counsel expressly declined to lodge a formal complaint of torture. This decision was predicated entirely upon well-founded apprehensions regarding retaliatory measures, given the applicant’s total reliance upon the detaining authorities for his day-to-day conditions of detention. [40]
MAY 15, 2026 — ASTANA — At a press conference convened by the Central Communications Service — an agency operating under the auspices of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan — concerning cybercrime representatives of the Ministry of Internal Affairs were called upon to provide an update on the proliferation of cyberattacks. During the proceedings, official spokespersons were visibly unable to provide a substantive or coherent response to inquiries from the press gallery regarding the status of the ongoing criminal investigation into a targeted cyber-atrocities against Ms Samal Ibrayeva, Editor-in-Chief of the independent news outlet Ulysmedia.kz. The underlying offence involves a coordinated digital harassment campaign wherein the journalist’s personal data and professional identity were weaponised. This was executed via the unauthorised publication of defamatory material on an illicit commercial adult services classifieds platform operating under the domain “Kyzdаr.net”. [41]
MAY 15, 2026 — TALDYKORGAN — The Chairperson and residents of the “Kyzyl Tas” dacha settlement have petitioned President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, seeking executive intervention to secure the provision of mains gas infrastructure and adequate highway access to the settlement. At the commencement of the spring quarter, local municipal authorities gave undertakings to extend the gas distribution network to “Kyzyl Tas”; however, residents report that these assurances have not been actioned and no substantive works have commenced. [42]
MAY 18, 2026 — ALMATY — The Chair of the non-governmental organisation, the «Guild of Court Reporters», Ms Zhanna Baitelova, submitted a formal application to the tribunal, seeking an order to permit media representatives to attend the proceedings concerning the journalist, Mr Vadim Boreiko. The applicant further petitioned the court to ensure that the substantive hearing be listed in a courtroom of sufficient capacity. This request was predicated on the requirement to accommodate both members of the press and the wider public, thereby upholding the constitutional principle of open justice and satisfying the requisite standards of public scrutiny. [43]
MAY 18, 2026 — ASTANA — Criminal proceedings initiated against the human rights defender, Mr Yermek Narymbay, have formally progressed to trial. The prosecution arises from an indictment alleging that Mr Narymbay acted in breach of a subsisting judicial order prohibiting the publication of material via electronic communications networks. Mr Narymbay is currently serving a three-month term of imprisonment, handed down pursuant to Article 430(1) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The statutory framework underpinning these proceedings concerns the purported non-compliance with a judicial determination that has entered into legal force. [44]
MAY 18, 2026 — ALMATY — On appeal, the investigative court of first instance upheld the impugned judicial order, dismissing the application submitted by legal counsel on behalf of Mr Sanzhar Bokayev. The court varied the terms of the initial warrant to effect a further extension of the period of remand in custody. Accordingly, Mr Bokayev is to remain detained for an additional calendar month, with the current authorisation set to expire on 18 June 2026. This procedural development was formally confirmed in a statement released by his instructed advocate, Mr Radmir Utepov. Mr Bokayev — a prominent civic activist and entrepreneur — continues to be held under an operative warrant for pre-trial detention at a facility under the direct institutional administration and operational jurisdiction of the National Security Committee (KNB). The state authorities have preferred substantive charges against the detainee pursuant to the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The statutory framework invoked by the prosecution comprises Article 340(3), relating to the unlawful felling, destruction, or consequential damage of trees and shrubbery, and Article 190(4), pertaining to allegations of fraud executed on an «especially large scale.” [45]
MAY 19, 2026 — ALMATY — Evidence indicates a coordinated campaign of digital interference targeting Ms Irina Mednikova, Director of the Youth Information Service of Kazakhstan (MISK). The interference manifested in compromised personal and professional communication channels, alongside the systematic censorship of content hosted on the Meta-owned platform, Instagram. The service provider cited ostensible breaches of platform community guidelines and integrity metrics as the rationale for the suspension of these accounts. In testimony submitted, Ms Mednikova observed: “A targeted cyber-operation was similarly directed against the Youth Media digital asset. I was repeatedly de-authenticated from the administration panel. Instagram subsequently issued a notification stating that the account had been restricted as a prophylactic measure against unauthorised access. Crucially, the multi-factor authentication protocol failed, as verification codes were no longer transmitted via official platform channels, but were diverted through an unidentified third-party routing mechanism.” [46]
MAY 19, 2026 — ALMATY — The Bostandyk District Court has convened to hear civil proceedings legalised by the developer, LLP ‘Etude-Ybyrai’, against the journalist Mr Vadim Boreiko. The claimant seeks remedies in respect of impugned statements published by the defendant, which are alleged to be factually inaccurate and defamatory. [47]
MAY 19, 2026 — ASTANA — Human rights defender Ms Elvira Bekzadina is currently facing indictment under Articles 379 and 380 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, which stipulate criminal penalties for the alleged disobedience towards, and the alleged use of violence or insult against, an officer of state authority. The state’s intervention reportedly stems from an incident in which Ms Bekzadina sought to prevent state officials from interfering with her minor children, aged seven and ten. On 16 December 2025, Ms Bekzadina, accompanied by her husband and their two minor daughters, was en route to a memorial site to lay flowers in commemoration of the victims of famine and historic political repression. In the immediate vicinity of the family residence, officers of the Kazakh police intercepted the family. It is reported that these officers, without lawful justification or prior explanation, attempted to separate the minor children from their parents by force. In response to this imminent threat to her children’s welfare, Ms Bekzadina intervened to protect them. Consequent upon this intervention, police officers detained Ms Bekzadina, her husband, and both minor children, whereupon the entire family was transferred into custody at a local police department. [48]
MAY 20, 2026 — ALMATY — A public petition has been launched calling for the proceedings against the prominent civic activist and entrepreneur, Mr Sanzhar Bokayev, to be conducted in open court, and demanding full transparency regarding the progress of the underlying investigation. Mr Bokayev remains remanded in custody at a pre-trial detention facility under the jurisdiction of the National Security Committee. The detainee faces indictment under the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, specifically pursuant to Article 340(3), concerning the alleged unlawful felling, destruction of, or damage to trees and shrubs, and Article 190(4), concerning alleged fraud committed on an especially large scale. [49]
MAY 20, 2026 — ASTANA — The period of pre-trial detention in respect of Ms Botagoz Omarova has been extended for a further month, expiring on 21 June. Commenting on the development, legal counsel for the journalist, Ms Tolkyn Abilova, noted: “The initial period of detention was due to expire tomorrow. It appears that the complainant is presently unwilling to enter into mediation or reach a settlement.” Ms Omarova was previously subject to a two-month house arrest order, a restrictive interim measure which substantially curtailed her liberty pending the determination of the proceedings. The criminal charges preferred against the journalist arise under Article 274(2) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The indictment concerns the alleged dissemination of information known to be false, which is purportedly capable of causing a breach of the peace or a disturbance to public order. [50]
MAY 20, 2026 — ALMATY — Hieromonk Iakov (secular name Vladimir Vorontsov), formerly a cleric of the Russian Orthodox Church, is currently subject to a judicial order directing his transfer to a secure psychiatric facility for the purposes of undergoing a compulsory forensic psychiatric assessment. Mr Vorontsov’s legal counsel, Mr Galym Nurpeissov, reported critical procedural omissions to the following effect: «Once again, I was presented with the decision as a fait accompli. Neither I nor co-counsel were provided with prior notification of the scheduled examination.» Mr Vorontsov remains remanded in custody for a prescribed period of three months. The statutory framework invoked by the state authorities comprises Articles 302 and 296 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan (the unlawful possession of narcotic substances without intent to supply and the alleged management or operation of premises designated for the consumption of controlled or illicit substances). [51]
MAY 20, 2026 — ASTANA — A formal representation has been submitted to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev by members of the workforce employed by ‘BerAli Mangystau Company’, seeking executive intervention in respect of ongoing industrial grievances. The petitioners allege systemic breaches of statutory employment standards and have sought formal redress to safeguard their fundamental labor rights. This recourse follows prior, unsuccessful representations submitted to both the regional municipal authority (the Akimat) and the procuracy. [52]
MAY 20, 2026 — KOKSHETAU — Mr Medeu Daurenbekov, an officer of the Atbasar penitentiary administration, currently stands trial pursuant to Article 146 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, which codifies the offences of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment and torture. The prosecution arises from the alleged ill-treatment of the political activist, Timur Danebayev. Mr Daurenbekov has made representations directly to the investigative journalism outlet, Orda.kz, categorically denying any involvement in the index offence. It is his submission that the decision to prefer criminal charges against him was made in the absence of a prima facie evidential basis and was motivated primarily by an administrative desire to artificially inflate the number of indictments. [53]
MAY 20, 2026 — ASTANA — Amendments have been laid to revise the extant electoral legislation. These statutory modifications introduce provisions governing the Asset Recovery Committee within the General Prosecutor’s Office, consequentially amending the short title of the Bill to the Elections and Prosecutor’s Office Bill. Furthermore, the draft legislation creates a prohibition on the photographing or recording of ballot papers, alongside the dissemination of any such material on polling day, on the grounds that such conduct shall be deemed to constitute electoral campaigning. [54]
MAY 20, 2026 — ALMATY — Systemic disruptions have been observed regarding public access to the electronic communication platforms of Radio Azattyq (azattyq.org) and Azattyq Asia (azattyqasia.org). The timing of these access restrictions coincides precisely with the publication by the aforementioned outlets of an investigative report concerning the operations of the construction enterprise «VD Stroy-Engineering». The findings of said report alleged that certain co-founders of the entity maintain commercial associations with relatives of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. [55]
MAY 20, 2026 — ASTANA — The executive management of the Saken Seifullin Kazakh Agrotechnical Research University instructed Ms Aigul Tokpayeva to tender her voluntary resignation. Evidence suggests that this demand was politically motivated, serving as a punitive measure against her peaceful civil advocacy. In assessing the grounds for her constructive dismissal, Ms Tokpayeva observed: “The impetus behind these measures is that I am perceived as disloyal to the current authorities. I maintain independent tenets which diverge from the official narrative promoted by the state.” Ms Tokpayeva has been convicted pursuant to Article 380(3) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The charge relates to the alleged use of non-life-threatening violence against a public official acting in the course of their duties. Following criminal proceedings, the court imposed a sentence of two years’ restriction of liberty. [56]
MAY 21, 2026 — ALMATY — The independent current affairs publication Vlast fell victim to a sophisticated, large-scale DDoS attack. The volume of malicious traffic intentionally overwhelmed the publication’s hosting infrastructure, resulting in a total cessation of public access to its primary digital domain. In an official statement issued in response to the disruption, the editorial board of Vlast confirmed that operational continuity would be maintained through alternative dissemination channels: «Vlast will continue publishing through social media platforms and the website when possible.» This incident does not appear to be an isolated occurrence. Cumulatively, evidence suggests a broader pattern of hostility targeting digital journalism; the digital media project Qumash similarly reported that its infrastructure had been compromised by a comparable DDoS attack on the preceding day. [57]
MAY 21, 2026 — ASTANA — The submission from Ms Diana Okremova, Director of the Legal Media Centre, states: “The Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan has declined to disclose the aggregate quantum of public funding allocated to private media enterprises. This raises serious questions as to the efficacy of the statutory framework governing freedom of information and the corresponding constitutional guarantees. The current position reflects a profound systemic failure to adhere to the rule of law. Crucially, the non-disclosure of these data suggests a deliberate concealment of public expenditure, which fundamentally undermines any assertions of substantive progressive development.” [58]
MAY 21, 2026 — ASTANA — The independent journalist, Ms Botagoz Omarova, has issued a formal public retraction and a comprehensive apology to LLP «VD Stroy-Engineering» and its director, Mr Askar Ussimbekov. This development follows her formal acknowledgment that previously published material concerning purported construction debts, in relation to the equestrian sports complex in Astana, was factually inaccurate. Concurrently, criminal proceedings initiated against Ms Omarova under Article 274(2) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan — which prohibits the dissemination of knowingly false information deemed prejudicial to public order — have been formally discontinued. Following the cessation of the prosecution, the judicial order imposing house arrest upon Ms Omarova was rescinded, and she has been released unconditionally. [59]
MAY 21, 2026 — TASHKENT, Uzbekistan — Ms Gulmira Birzhanova, Head of the Legal Service at Media Qoldau and co-founder of the Legal Media Centre, provided expert testimony on national and international media law, observing: “The Russian federal executive body responsible for the censorship and monitoring of mass media, Roskomnadzor (the Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Media), has for a number of years issued formal notices to Kazakh media outlets, demanding the extrajudicial removal of specific editorial content.” The witness submitted that such interventions constitute a material impediment to the free dissemination of information. Furthermore, Ms Birzhanova notes that whilst the Republic of Kazakhstan remains entirely outside the jurisdiction of the Russian Federation, extraterritorial pressure exerted via domestic internet service providers effectively facilitates and reinforces these regulatory restrictions within the jurisdiction. [60]
MAY 21, 2026 — AKMOLA Region — Mr Aidar Syzdykov appeared via video link before the domestic court of first instance from Penal Colony No. 7, located in the settlement of Granite, to petition for the commutation of his sentence to a non-custodial or less restrictive alternative. The court dismissed the application in its entirety, ordering that the remainder of the custodial term be served. Mr Syzdykov is currently serving a five-year term of imprisonment following his conviction under Article 297 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The statutory offence under Article 297 encompasses the unlawful acquisition, possession, carriage, trafficking, or distribution of controlled, narcotic, or psychotropic substances. [61]
MAY 21, 2026 — ASTANA — Mr Mussagali Dauylov, a registered disabled person with high-dependency needs (categorised under domestic law as a disability of the first degree), sought judicial review of a decision dated 4 March 2026. By that decision, the competent administrative authority refused the Claimant permission to conduct a sole peaceful protest (a ‘single-person picket’) outside the House of Ministries, which had been scheduled to take place on 12 March 2026. The objective of the impugned protest was to publicly manifest dissent against proposed constitutional amendments. [62]
MAY 21, 2026 — ALMATY — The Qumash project, an outlet noted for its satirical and humorous presentation of current affairs, reported that it had been the target of a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack. [63]
MAY 21, 2026 — The HAGUE, the Netherlands — The International Court of Justice (ICJ) delivered a landmark advisory opinion confirming that the right to strike is fundamentally protected under the International Labour Organization (ILO) Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise Convention (No. 87). This authoritative determination carries profound implications for the Republic of Kazakhstan, particularly when considered against the backdrop of systemic constraints imposed upon the domestic exercise of the right to strike. [64]
MAY 21, 2026 — ALMATY — A formal submission has been received from Ms Raushan Omarova, a practicing lawyer, concerning serious interference with the independence of the legal profession and violations of fundamental human rights in the Bostandyk District of Almaty. Ms Omarova reports that officers attached to the 53rd Police Precinct within the Bostandyk District unlawfully detained and held her in custody in connection with the criminal investigation concerning ‘Jan Production’. The complainant states that, in the absence of judicial authorisation or any lawful authority, she was subjected to sustained psychological pressure and intimidation. Specifically, operational officers threatened her with prolonged, unlawful detention, stating, “We will not release you,” with the explicit objective of compelling her to withdraw legal assistance from victims in the aforementioned proceedings. The actions of the law enforcement officers are alleged to constitute prima facie breaches of the domestic criminal and constitutional law of the Republic of Kazakhstan, specifically Article 126 of the Criminal Code (Unlawful deprivation of liberty), Article 362 of the Criminal Code (Abuse of official powers or authority), Article 435 of the Criminal Code (Unlawful obstruction of the professional activities of an advocate), and Article 16 of the Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Violation of the fundamental right to personal liberty). [65]
MAY 21, 2026 — ALMATY — The Facebook account of the unregistered opposition political party, “Alga Kazakhstan”, has reportedly been suspended. According to the activist, Mr Asset Abishev, the platform enacted the restriction on the grounds of alleged breaches of its community standards. [66]
MAY 22, 2026 — ALMATY — Reports indicate the acute procedural irregularities surrounding the detention and subsequent treatment of Hieromonk Yakov (secular name Vladimir Vorontsov). A former cleric of the Russian Orthodox Church within the Republic of Kazakhstan, Mr Vorontsov has been forcibly transferred to a secure facility for compulsory psychiatric assessment. This transfer was executed precipitously, prior to the determination of outstanding appellate submissions lodged by his legal representatives. Mr Vorontsov remains remanded in custody for a prescribed period of two months, pursuant to judicial orders purportedly executed under Articles 296 and 302 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan: the alleged management, operation, or maintenance of premises designated for the consumption of controlled or prohibited substances, and the unlawful possession of narcotic substances, categorised under domestic law as possession without intent to supply, respectively. [67]
MAY 22, 2026 — ATYRAU — The executive authorities initiated an enforcement operation directed at vehicles displaying foreign registration plates, with a view to imposing summary financial penalties. However, following sustained public opprobrium, the initiative was subsequently abandoned, according to a statement by Mr Murat Abenov, a Member of the Mazhilis. [68]
MAY 22, 2026 — ALMATY — The prominent public figure, Mr Orazaly Yerzhanov, has been found guilty of offences relating to the purported obstruction of electoral rights and the interference with election commissions, pursuant to Article 150 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Following his conviction, the court imposed a sentence comprising a four-year restriction of liberty, alongside an ancillary five-year prohibition disqualifying him from engaging in public advocacy, civil society activities, and professional journalism. Prior to his prosecution, Mr Yerzhanov had been a vocal critic of the state’s proposed constitutional amendments. [69]
MAY 22, 2026 — ASTANA — The pre-trial restrictions imposed upon the journalist, Ms Botagoz Omarova, were formally lifted following the discontinuance of the criminal proceedings initiated against her. Confirmation of the discontinuance, which received the requisite prosecutorial assent, was provided by her legal representative, Ms Tolkyn Abilova. This development followed the publication of a formal retraction on 22 May 2026 via the Telegram channel “Shut up, Botagoz!”, wherein Ms Omarova acknowledged a departure from established journalistic standards and tendered an apology. Prior to the discontinuance of the proceedings, Ms Omarova had been subject to a judicial order for house arrest spanning a period of three months. The underlying criminal charge was brought under Article 274(2) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The indictment related to the alleged dissemination of information known to be false, which was asserted by the state authorities to be capable of occasioning a disturbance to public order. [70]
MAY 22, 2026 — QONAYEV — Ms Anar Kussainova, legal counsel to Mr Almasbek Sadyrbai, a prominent agricultural expert and human rights defender in the Republic of Kazakhstan, submitted that the statutory period of remand applicable to her client expired in its entirety two months ago. Specifically, the judicial warrant authorising his preventive detention lapsed on 19 March 2026 at 21:40. As a matter of strict constitutional and procedural law, the expiration of a remand warrant without a valid judicial extension renders any continued detention prima facie unlawful. Consequently, Mr Sadyrbai is entitled to immediate and unconditional release from custody. Mr Sadyrbai is currently remanded in custody under Article 189 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, facing allegations of the misappropriation or embezzlement of entrusted property. Mr Sadyrbai has consistently maintained that the criminal proceedings initiated against him are vexatious and politically motivated. It is highly evident that the charges serve as a pretext to penalise his legitimate public interest advocacy. Prior to his arrest, Mr Sadyrbai was a vocal critic of the Kazakh Ministry of Agriculture and acted as a key human rights defender on behalf of independent agricultural workers across the region. His prosecution appears designed to silence dissent within the agricultural sector. [71].
MAY 22, 2026 — ALMATY — Mr Alnur Ilyashev, a prominent civil society advocate, reported a suspected unauthorised interception of his Telegram account, noting: «A series of irregular occurrences have come to light. On several occasions, notifications were received requesting account verification codes. This culminated today in a formal security alert indicating that unauthorised access to the account had been successfully established via a secondary device, specifically identified as an AORUS 17H BXF laptop operating from an IP address located in Almaty.” [72]
MAY 22, 2026 — ALMATY — Data compiled in the iteration of the international Democracy Perception Index (DPI) indicates that Kazakhstan occupies the lowest position among the 98 states surveyed globally in respect of domestic public perception of democratic governance. Submitting evidence to the inquiry, Mr Serik Beissembayev, a prominent sociologist and researcher, observed: «Whilst the jurisdiction has no historical precedent of functioning under a democratic governance, current developments in domestic policy appear to have fallen short of even the most rudimentary expectations of citizens in Kazakhstan regarding normative political standards.” [73]
MAY 24, 2026 — SEMEY — Reputable public advocate Mr Rollan Mashpiyev has formally lodged a submission with the Prosecutor’s Office of Semey, petitioning for a comprehensive statutory investigation into the quality and execution of resurfacing works undertaken on the suspension bridge spanning the Irtysh River. The petitioner contends that the remedial works in question may have been executed in material breach of established civil engineering and construction standards. It is submitted that any substantive deviation from prescribed engineering protocols compromises the long-term viability of the asset and thus constitutes a matter of grave public interest. [74]
MAY 25, 2026 — MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA, USA — Google Corporation has reported that the websites azattyq.org and azattyqasia.org were subject to disruption within the Republic of Kazakhstan following the publication of an investigative journalism report concerning the commercial operations of «VD Stroy-Engineering». Reports indicate that the co-founders and executive management of the aforementioned entity maintain close familial ties to the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The identity of the complainant who initiated the grievance remains undisclosed. In official correspondence regarding the matter, Google Corporation cited an alleged infringement of copyright, directing the affected parties to the Lumen database for further particulars. The editorial board of the publication has robustly denied any breach of intellectual property law and has formally lodged an appeal against the determination. [75]
MAY 25, 2026 — ALMATY Region — Representations have been formally submitted to the Executive by residents of the settlements of Almalybak and Zhalpaksai regarding systemic failures in the municipal infrastructure. Specifically, these grievances pertain to prolonged interruptions in the supply of wholesome drinking water and the consecutive breakdown of domestic waste collection services. Despite recurrent petitions directed to the competent local administrative authorities, no adequate or effective remedy has been afforded to the affected populace. The complainants contend that the relevant local authorities have failed to discharge their statutory functions with respect to public health and essential infrastructure. [76]
MAY 25, 2026 — ALMATY — Civil society activists associated with the «Atazhurt» movement Assen Nursan and Oralkhan Aben were summarily detained by Kazakh law enforcement authorities. Notably, the detained individuals include the spouse of Mr Tursynbek Kabi, an activist who was convicted in April 2026 under Article 174 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Incitement of social, national, tribal, racial, class or religious hatred) and is currently serving a five-year term of imprisonment. In a related development, Ms Nurgul Ibrayeva was forcibly removed by security forces from a rail service en route to Astana. Ms Ibrayeva is the spouse of Mr Bekzat Maksutkhan, the leader of the «Atazhurt» organisation, who was similarly sentenced to five years’ imprisonment under the aforementioned Article 174. The individuals in question were traveling to the capital with the intention of representation to the Embassy of the United States of America. Their objective was to present a formal appeal regarding the ongoing prosecution of 19 individuals convicted under Article 174. These convictions arose from an anti-Beijing demonstration during which a Chinese national flag and an effigy of President Xi Jinping were destroyed. [77]
MAY 25, 2026 — ASTANA — The Supreme Court of the Republic of Kazakhstan has dismissed a cassation appeal lodged by the civil rights activist and public figure, Mr Sergei Zinchenko. The underlying proceedings concerned a claim for damages in respect of non-pecuniary loss, brought against the Department of Police for the Kostanay Region, the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Ministry of Finance, and the Kostanay Regional Centre for Mental Health. [78] [79]
MAY 25, 2026 — ALMATY — The Kazakhstan International Bureau for Human Rights and Rule of Law (KIBHR) has issued an authoritative declaration concerning the situation of Hieromonk Iakov (secular name Vladimir Vorontsov), calling for immediate remedial action to address fundamental breaches of the right to a fair trial, as guaranteed under international covenant. The KIBHR emphasizes the absolute necessity of maintaining strict adherence to the core tenets of the administration of justice — specifically, the principle of equality of arms and the adversarial nature of criminal proceedings. Serious concern is raised regarding the application of coercive measures against the accused. The Bureau underscores the requirement for stringent judicial oversight and robust statutory safeguards in respect of individuals subject to applications for compulsory psychiatric hospitalization. Mr Vorontsov, formerly a cleric of the Russian Orthodox Church, has been remanded in custody for an initial period of three months. The state authorities have brought preferred charges under the following provisions of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan: Article 302 (Alleged management or maintenance of premises for the consumption of controlled or illicit substances), and Article 296 (Unlawful possession of narcotic substances without intent to supply). [80]
MAY 26, 2026 — ALMATY — The Administrative Court has convicted environmental advocate Mr Abai Yerekenov of minor disorderly conduct, a statutory infraction broad enough to encompass alleged public disrespect and breaches of the peace. Pursuant to Article 434(1) of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the tribunal summarily imposed a financial penalty of 60,550 tenges (approx. 93 GBP). The prosecution arose from an incident during public consultation proceedings regarding the proposed Almaty Superski mountain development scheme in the Kok-Zhailau area. Civil society actors and environmental stakeholders contend that the infrastructure project poses a severe and irreversible threat to the local ecosystem. [81]
MAY 26, 2026 — ALMATY — In the context of proceedings relating to the journalist Mr Vadim Boreiko, His Honour Judge Aidar Utebekov, sitting in the Bostandyk District Court, refused the claimant’s application for the matter to be heard in camera. [82]
MAY 26, 2026 — ALMATY — The appellate courts of the Republic of Kazakhstan have dismissed the respective appeals of Mr Mansur Movlayev, a Chechen human rights defender and prominent critic of the Kadyrov regime, and Ms Yulia Yemelyanova, an activist associated with the late Alexei Navalny’s political organizations. These rulings finalise the judicial affirmation of earlier administrative decisions denying the applicants refugee status within the jurisdiction. It is observed with concern that the domestic courts, in adjudicating the cases of Mr Movlayev and Ms Yemelyanova, failed to give due weight or effect to the treaty obligations which Kazakhstan has ratified under public international law. Specifically, the determinations appear to have proceeded without regard to the strict strictures of non-refoulement and the minimum standards of protection mandated by international human rights law. Furthermore, the judiciary failed to take cognisance of the formal communications and urgent appeals issued by United Nations Special Rapporteurs. These interventions, directed specifically to the Kazakh authorities, explicitly addressed the acute human rights risks faced by the detainees and underscored the state’s international obligations in respect of their detention and potential removal. [83]
MAY 26, 2026 — ASTANA — The claim brought by Ms Diana Okremova, Director of the Legal Media Centre, seeking a declaration that the Astana Akimat’s refusal to disclose information regarding peaceful assemblies was unlawful, has been dismissed. The Court held that “no violation of the claimant’s rights or legitimate interests had been established”. [84]
MAY 26, 2026 — SEMEY — Pursuant to a complaint preferred by Mr Yerbol Aqqozha, a prominent public figure and legal practitioner, concerning the actions of law enforcement officers who detained him on 24 February 2026 and allegedly deprived him of his liberty for a period of three hours, the Court has upheld the determination of the Head of the Auezov Police Department, Mr Yeldos Orazalin, dated 1 April 2026. The court found no merit in the claimant’s assertions of procedural impropriety or substantive unlawfulness. Accordingly, the claim was dismissed in its entirety. [85]
MAY 27, 2026 — ASTANA — Kazakh opposition activist, Mr Marat Zhanuzakov, was apprehended by law enforcement authorities in the vicinity of Nursultan Nazarbayev Airport and subsequently conveyed to a local police station. It is understood that the detention immediately followed the publication of a photograph on social media by Mr Zhanuzakov. The image depicted the activist juxtaposed against the national flags of Kazakhstan and Ukraine, appended with a caption and was accompanied by a caption stating: “Hey, [insult], get out of Kazakhstan. Glory to Ukraine!”. The incident appears to be directly linked to peaceful political expression preceding a high-level state visit by the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin. Following a period of administrative detention, Mr Zhanuzakov was released from police custody late the same evening. Reports indicate that his release was conditional upon a state demand to remove the controversial material from the public domain. When instructed by police officers to delete the digital publication, Mr Zhanuzakov reportedly declined to give an immediate undertaking, stating that he would take the matter under advisement. [86]
MAY 28, 2026 — NEW YORK City, USA — Three United Nations Special Rapporteurs have formally issued a joint communication to the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan, seeking detailed clarification on the statutory basis for the ongoing criminal prosecution of Hieromonk Iakov (secular name Vladimir Vorontsov). In accordance with standard United Nations mandates, the Kazakh authorities were afforded a strict 60-day window within which to submit their formal response. This prescriptive period expires on 30 May 2026, subsequent to which the full text of the correspondence enters the public domain by operation of official UN publication protocols. Mr Vorontsov, a former cleric of the Russian Orthodox Church, is currently subject to a judicial remand warrant and has been held in pre-trial detention for a period of three months. The state authorities have brought charges under Article 302 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Management or operation of premises dedicated to the unlawful consumption of controlled substances), and Article 296 of the same Code (Unlawful possession of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, or precursors without intent to supply). [87]
MAY 28, 2026 — ALMATY — Proceedings in respect of the claim for defamation and financial loss brought by the construction enterprise, ‘Etude Ybyrai’, against the journalist Mr Vadim Boreiko — author and presenter of the YouTube channel ‘Hyperborea’ — have been stayed pending the determination of court-ordered linguistic and forensic economic expert assessments. [88]
MAY 28, 2026 — ASTANA — According to official data released by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, administrative sanctions have been applied to 1,179 individuals for failure to comply with public identification standards, specifically regarding the wearing of garments that conceal the face in public places. The statutory framework governing the obscuration of facial features — whether in relation to automated surveillance systems or routine policing operations — is codified under Article 434-3 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The enforcement mechanism operates on a graduated scale: first-time non-compliance attracts an official warning, whilst subsequent or repeated infractions attract a financial penalty calculated at 10 monthly calculation indices (approx. 67 GBP). [89]
MAY 28, 2026 — KYIV, Ukraine — Journalist Ms Natalia Sadykova detailed the scale of the latest targeted digital interference directed against the ‘BASE’ media outlet: «During the course of the offensive initiated on 15 April, a total of 545 distinct publications were suppressed from the BASE Facebook page alone. These expunged materials comprised investigative reports, journalistic copy, video broadcasts, and photographic evidence. In specific instances, the platform’s primary profile and header imagery were also summarily removed. It is our assessment that these operations constitute highly organised, capital-intensive state disruption, which we believe to be financed directly by the National Security Committee and the wider Kazakh authorities through the misdirection of public funds. [90]
MAY 29, 2026 — STEPNOGORSK — Representatives of the unregistered political organisation «Alga Kazakhstan!” recently sought access to Mr Marat Zhylanbayev at Detention Facility No. 4. The purpose of the visit was to ascertain the welfare and detention conditions of Mr Zhylanbayev, who is widely regarded by civil society observers as a political prisoner. The prison administration denied entry to both the delegation and his instructed legal representative, Mr Meirzhan Doskarayev. The authorities cited «quarantine measures» as the formal statutory ground for withholding access. Mr Zhylanbayev is currently serving a seven-year sentence of immediate imprisonment at a correctional facility in Stepnogorsk. His incarceration follows a conviction under Article 258 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Financing of alleged terrorist or extremist activity), and Article 405 of the same Code (Participation in the activities of a banned or designated organisation). [91]
MAY 30, 2026 — ASTANA — Proposals were submitted by civil society representatives advocating for enhanced verification mechanisms for election results and consequential amendments to the Law «On Elections»; however, these proposals failed to command the support of the legislature. It is a matter of concern that the parliamentary commission omitted to provide any reasoned justification for their rejection. In evidence submitted to this inquiry, public commentator Mr Vladimir Dvoretskiy observed: «However, the parliamentary commission did not provide a single argument explaining why they had been rejected.” [92]
MAY 30, 2026 — KARAGANDA Region — Residents of the settlement of Aktobe (Amangeldy) have formally submitted an urgent petition to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, requesting executive intervention in respect of a protracted local governance failure. The submission alleges that the local Akim, Mr Yerlan Kussaiyn, has consistently failed to address systemic infrastructure grievances raised by the community. Specifically, the petitioners seek the stringent enforcement of maximum permitted weights for vehicles to mitigate continuous damage to the local highway network, and robust statutory measures designed to safeguard community infrastructure from structural degradation caused by heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). [93]
MAY 31, 2026 — ALMATY — Expert testimony provided by Ms Tatyana Chernobil, an independent consultant in international human rights law, indicates that public video surveillance systems are increasingly deployed as a primary mechanism for the monitoring of peaceful assemblies. The evidence suggests an institutional shift in operational policing, whereby authorities appear to approach participants of such assemblies with an initial presumption of suspicion, rather than maintaining the requisite presumption of legality. Current operational data indicates that the national network comprises approximately 1.6 million closed-circuit television (CCTV) and facial recognition cameras. This represents a concentration of roughly eight cameras per 100 citizens. [94]
MAY 31, 2026 — AKTAU — A significant data breach has occurred at the Shakhmardan Yessenov Caspian University of Technology and Engineering, compromising the personal data of approximately 2,000 enrolled students. Initial indications suggest that the compromised information was inadvertently published, and remained accessible, on the public procurement portal. In response to the incident, the parents of affected first-year students have submitted a formal petition to the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Akim of the Mangystau Region, and the Minister of Science and Higher Education. The petitioners formally request a comprehensive investigation and seek to ensure that those responsible are held strictly accountable under the relevant statutory frameworks. [95]
MAY 31, 2026 — ALMATY — Representations were formally submitted by Counsel, Ms Raushan Omarova, to the Presidential Administration, the General Prosecutor’s Office, and the National Security Committee. The application seeks immediate intervention in respect of alleged unlawful interference, harassment, and undue executive pressure exerted upon Counsel arising directly from her professional instructions in a pending criminal matter. The underlying proceedings concern an indictment preferred under Article 190 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Counsel contends that the impugned state actions constitute a serious abridgement of the independence of the legal profession. Accordingly, a formal request has been preferred for a comprehensive, independent investigation into these matters to ensure compliance with constitutional guarantees and international human rights standards. [96]
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[2] https://otyrar.kz/2026/04/reshenie-apellyaczionnogo-suda-arest-na-15-sutok/
[3] https://www.instagram.com/p/DX1Tm9kjOYv/?img_index=5&igsh=MWs1NXZmM2ZxZjB6cw%3D%3D
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[7]https://www.facebook.com/talgat.umarov.5/posts/pfbid0cGHhdVyVcTiihsPVGwDvYzpzbCZvWUTJ21yC1Qg5e4NjhukAPa7mt5qNXb7XCYxCl
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https://www.azattyqasia.org/a/mid-kazahstana-i-predstavitelstvo-rse-rs-zaklyuchili-mediativnoe-soglashenie/33750565.html 03.06.26 г. site blocked
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[12] https://www.the-village-kz.com/village/city/news-city/44465-rabotu-hudozhnitsy-asel-kadyrhanovoy-posvyaschennuyu-repressiyam-1937-goda-snyali-s-venetsianskoy-biennale
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[14] https://vlast.kz/novosti/69316-sud-prodlil-ekstradicionnyj-arest-mansuru-movlaevu.html
[15]http://chromeextension//efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://rsf.org/sites/default/files/medias/file/2026/05/AydosSadykov_RU%20%281%29.pdf
[16] https://www.instagram.com/reels/DYEu-uPIB3v/
[17] https://orda.kz/ugolovnoe-delo-zaveli-iz-za-osobyh-flagov-na-9-maja-u-almatinskih-studentov-415084/
[18] https://orda.kz/zabrali-bez-povestki-i-pugajut-ugolovkoj-chto-delat-prizyvniku-objasnil-jurist-414401/
[19] https://www.instagram.com/reels/DYM8q_aNPqx/
[20] https://iphronline.org/articles/central-asia-escalating-digital-repression-threatens-civic-space-and-free-expression/
[21] https://bureau.kz/novosti/czifrovizacziya-na-sluzhbe-avtokratij/
[22] https://tirek.info/sud-po-delu-aktivista-amangeldy-dzhahina-pereveli-v-zakrytyj-rezhim/?preview=true
https://www.azattyqasia.org/a/sud-po-delu-aktivista-al%D2%93a-%D2%9Baza%D2%9Bstan-amangeldy-dzhahina-pereveli-v-zakrytyy-rezhim/33755336.htm site blocked 03.06.26 г.
[23] https://t.me/AdalSotKz/2695, https://t.me/AdalSotKz/2696
[24] https://tengrinews.kz/kazakhstan_news/nakanune-vyiborov-blogeram-napomnili-ob-otvetstvennosti-599108/
[25] https://kaztag.kz/ru/news/predstaviteli-media-soobshchestva-kazakhstana-obratilis-k-deputatam-parlamenta
[26] https://www.facebook.com/43809297/posts/10103869365392969/?rdid=Fu6DSerQYp6xtQo9#
[27] https://bes.media/news/arest-sanzhara-bokaeva-prodlili-do-18-iyunya-19cdce/
[28] https://vlast.kz/novosti/69343-v-kazahstane-vvodat-strafy-dla-onlajn-platform-za-otkaz-razmesat-agitacionnye-materialy.html
[29]https://www.facebook.com/lmc.kz/posts/pfbid02X7vfmpn9iDMb2D1jEvBitg3TDFSvYaU5wWom7j8w3z7ZfkoTGSyNmFfKisTZyHs9l?_rdc=1&_rdr#
[30] https://kaztag.kz/ru/news/delo-botagoz-omarovoy-peredadut-v-sud-v-blizhayshee-vremya-mvd
[31] https://t.me/AdalSotKz/2697
[32] https://t.me/AdalSotKz/2698
[33]https://www.facebook.com/qadyrqasyet1/posts/pfbid04dLx6dKDYQn2UZ6hNg84hRt3x6sxy2UvoT74Wj9nHnHABkJAfnvbn9JjBqwN4GSal
[35] https://bes.media/amp/akimat-astani-otkazal-v-aktsii-v-podderzhku-lyudey-s-autizmom/
[36] https://www.instagram.com/reels/DYUvj5cI699/
[37] https://www.instagram.com/reels/DYXbuIAoSGy/
[38] https://www.instagram.com/reels/DYZFuTpI7qj/
[39] https://www.instagram.com/reels/DYZz2xLIHgU/
[40] https://www.instagram.com/reels/DYekWn3oaaV/
[41] https://ulysmedia.kz/news/73525-delo-o-kiberatake-na-samal-ibraevu-proshiol-god-i-mvd-nechego-skazat/
[42] https://www.facebook.com/100072192885952/videos/pcb.975200184896402/995012799717769
[43]https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=27219866537609166&id=100000375601606&mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=BAdxiwuD2OpwGBM0
[45] https://www.instagram.com/reels/DYoTmz0MpJO/
[46] https://factcheck.kz/novosti/ob-udalenii-dvuh-pablikov-i-lichnogo-akkaunta-soobschili-v-misk/
[47]https://www.facebook.com/toregozhina/posts/pfbid0HhNY9LvuMUR5qTmf7spoEgjeFeu6h8fhCLSsQkHaGN6u5SU4EJGLwH6q4M7Z7RgSl
[48] https://www.facebook.com/groups/2613737598955074
[49] https://www.openpetition.org/petition/online/svobodu-sanzaru-bokaevu-trebuem-otkrytogo-suda-i-polnoj-informacii-po-hodu-rassledovania
[50] https://t.me/elmedia_kz/8705
[51] https://tirek.info/iakova-vorontsova-otpravlyayut-v-statsionar-dlya-provedeniya-psihiatricheskoj-ekspertizy/?preview=true
https://clck.ru/3TykDx site blocked 04.06.26 г.
[52] https://www.instagram.com/reels/DYjVt7qMudp/
[53] https://orda.kz/delo-timura-danebaeva-sotrudnik-kolonii-zajavil-chto-stal-obvinjaemym-dlja-kolichestva-414590/
[54] https://vlast.kz/novosti/69427-v-kazahstane-zapretat-publikovat-foto-bulletena-v-den-vyborov.html
[56] https://www.facebook.com/reel/1015503877809490
[57] https://t.me/vlastkz/22702
[58]https://www.facebook.com/dianaokremova/posts/pfbid0a3CzNmZ6MTr9paZc3k1ZTQwiZvAQBL2ijKdaw4cUicJZB5e4fHFj643aidyMRerdl
[59] https://kz.kursiv.media/2026-05-22/tsse-botagoz-omarova-izvinilas-za-lozhnye-publikaczii-o-stroikompanii/
[60]https://www.facebook.com/lmc.kz/posts/pfbid023xuJkY2b14mWreQzww6nmXtee7NMzAh5fsgQPN4BZe9eVkTQTXqrqtcmLWnRZLq7l
[61] https://www.facebook.com/reel/2123526798221967
[62] https://t.me/AdalSotKz/2708
[63] https://t.me/qumash_kz/15120
[64] https://news.un.org/ru/story/2026/05/1467958
[65] https://www.instagram.com/reels/DYodoKaNhNd/
[66] https://www.facebook.com/100022710849711/posts/2158289071604767/?rdid=yPYFrDAiLmgRGckV#
[67] https://bureau.kz/novosti/voronczova-otpravili-v-psihiatricheskoe-uchrezhdenie/
[68] https://kaztag.kz/ru/news/grazhdane-ne-dali-provesti-reydy-mvd-na-dorogakh-v-atyrau
[69] https://vlast.kz/novosti/69477-sud-naznacil-orazaly-erzanovu-4-goda-ogranicenia-svobody.html
[70] https://vlast.kz/novosti/69468-ugolovnoe-delo-protiv-zurnalistki-botagoz-omarovoj-prekraseno.html
[71] https://ulysmedia.kz/news/73972-sud-ostavil-pod-strazhei-aktivista-almasbeka-sadyrbaia-nesmotria-na-protesty-zashchity/
[72]https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10164344672952748&id=717497747&mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=mOIbF8ILZqR1zq6b#
[73]https://www.facebook.com/serik.beyssembayev/posts/pfbid031KTqcjvaQiTLY6F8KBEig9HZwitcG3zJVQqLbgSAf9cYa2F21bdJb3ooACfn2TYGl
[74] https://semeyainasy.media/2026/05/24/obshhestvennik-obratilsya-v-prokuraturu-iz-za-remonta-podvesnogo-mosta/
[75] https://tirek.info/azattyq-org-i-azattyqasia-org-byli-zablokirovany-posle-publikatsii-o-kompanii-vd-stroj-inzhiniring/?preview=true
[76] https://www.facebook.com/reel/1333003758749087
[77] https://bureau.kz/novosti/policziya-v-kazahstane-zaderzhala/
[78] https://t.me/AdalSotKz/2712
[79] https://t.me/AdalSotKz/2713
[80] https://bureau.kz/novosti/zayavleniya_i_obrasheniya/zayavlenie-o-situaczii-s-otczom-iakovom/
[81] https://bureau.kz/novosti/zaderzhanie-ekoaktivista-kak-chast/
[82] https://vlast.kz/novosti/69500-sud-almaty-otkazal-strojkompanii-v-zakrytii-sudebnogo-processa-po-isku-k-vadimu-borejko.html
[83]https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1767885334183491&id=100028861253705&mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=jWfKF9xFcVtGkc8B#
[84]https://www.facebook.com/lmc.kz/posts/pfbid0G5Eh5m75euiE5UehdQ2TiZdBfnW6kx9SUzQDvGMVCHLNtosgFZHVPgyJGQgVwPokl
[85] https://t.me/AdalSotKz/2715
[86] https://bureau.kz/novosti/za-plakat-v-den-priezda-putina/
[88] https://www.facebook.com/reel/924751203946692
[89] https://polisia.kz/ru/mvd-napomnilo-ob-otvetstvennosti-za-noshenie-odezhdy-prepyatstvuyushhej-raspoznavaniyu-litsa/
[90]https://www.facebook.com/basekz/posts/pfbid02ppjBc1bD33EWQFTGd8Qahi5uYTBz3p2scJHYc2Muq7j3U2iDYnLcAzN7yC8eoM79l
[91] https://www.instagram.com/p/DY95gzfCIj7/?img_index=1
[92] https://www.facebook.com/groups/netutilsboru/permalink/2565292273868848/?rdid=Z39wjUNFYgH0J5GM
[93] https://www.instagram.com/reels/DY7ZhDOIBIt/
[94] https://factcheck.kz/cifrovye-prava/massovoe-videonablyudenie-mezhdu-bezopasnostyu-i-kontrolem/
[95] https://www.instagram.com/p/DY7h8-LCBak/?img_index=5&igsh=MWRhc25mdG1najBhag%3D%3D
Обсуждение закрыто.