MONITORING OF POLITICAL PERSECUTION IN THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN from August 1 to August 31, 2025

August 1, Astana: Lawyer M. Doskaraev is facing persecution at the hands of the authorities for his defense of political prisoners M. Zhylanbaev, A. Syzdykov, and N. Zhusupova. An administrative case has been brought against him. Authorities drew up a report on a politically motivated case under Article 456-2 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK (“spreading false information”)[1].

August 1, Kokshetau: A KazTAG correspondent contacted Diana Akhatova, an inspector with the Akmola Regional Prosecutor’s Office, via WhatsApp to confirm that a criminal case had been opened against a blogger. However, instead of engaging in a constructive dialogue, Akhatova claimed that the journalist was pressuring her. She said that if the journalist contacted her again in that tone, she would file a complaint[2].

August 1, Astana: The state of access to information in Kazakhstan is discussed in the Ministry of Culture and Information’s report for 2024. Government agencies must strengthen their control measures and provide thorough responses to citizens and journalists. The report concludes that citizens are increasingly trying to obtain data from government agencies, but problems with institutional secrecy remain[3].

August 1, Astana: The Center for Combating Disinformation will operate within the Central Communications Service under the President of Kazakhstan. It is believed that this new department will play an important role in ensuring citizens’ right to access reliable information[4].

August 1, Almaty: The ORDA.KZ portal reports: “It has become increasingly concerning to observe a pattern in our nation where court proceedings are being classified in a wide range of ways, often without clear justification. This restricts journalists’ access to information and violates the provisions of the Law on Mass Media, which was signed by President K. Tokayev on June 19, 2024”[5].

August 1, West Kazakhstan Region: The public association Zhariya sent a pre-trial claim to Zh. Zhapbarkulov, the chairman of the city public council, demanding that he retract a comment he left on a Facebook post by Beknur Srazhanov, the head of Zhariya. According to independent observers, the comment was offensive and defamatory[6].

August 1, Atyrau, blogger Zhuldyz Sagiden, Article 434 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK. The court fined Zhuldyz Sagiden 55,048 tenge. This was in response to an unflattering statement she made on social media about men with beards. The blogger called them “disgusting” and “like women,” which sparked an intense discussion on social media[7].

August 2, Almaty: E. Narymbay, a civil activist, reported that a case had been filed against him under Article 73-3, Part 3 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK. The case was initiated based on a statement by the former rector of Kazakh National University, G. Mutanov, regarding a social media post about illegal buildings on the KazGUgrad campus. The administrative case was closed on August 7, 2025, due to the expiration of the deadline for consideration[8].

August 2, in Almaty a petition has been launched in support of establishing a representative office of the Patriarchate of Constantinople in Kazakhstan. Jacob Vorontsov, a former teacher at the Almaty Orthodox Seminary, initiated the effort[9].

August 2, Petropavlovsk: The family of activist S. Izmailov, including his daughter, is still under pressure. Police officers wanted to have a preventive conversation with Izmailov’s daughter because she allegedly wrote an obscene word on the asphalt. There is no video or other evidence of this fact, except for the words of a neighbor’s daughter[10].

August 3, Mangistau Region: Dinara Izturgan, a resident of Senek village in the Karakiyansky district, recorded a video statement in which she complained about police officers’ actions during a search of her home. Residents of the village say they have seen a video that shows police officers arriving at a private home. The officers are seen opening the trunk of their patrol car and taking a bag into the barn. Later, the video shows the same location being visited by special services. Following a subsequent search, weapons were discovered, and a local resident was taken into custody[11].

August 4, Stepnogorsk: Marat Zhylanbaev, Articles 258 and 405 of the Criminal Code of Kazakhstan, 7 years’ imprisonment. Lawyer D. Malyuga and Marat Zhylanbaev’s associates arrived at the colony to visit him and find out about his condition. However, the colony administration did not allow the lawyer to see Marat, citing “scheduled searches” as the reason[12].

August 4, Aktau: Lada.kz reports: “The topic of profanity among children is being discussed throughout society, particularly in regard to social media posts where teenagers and younger schoolchildren are using profane language publicly”. Lada.kz reports on the possible penalties and consequences of such behavior[13].

August 4, Astana: The administrative court held a preliminary hearing on the lawsuit filed by Radio Azattyk journalists against the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The journalists sued because the ministry refused to accredit nine of them[14].

August 5, Stepnogorsk, Institution No. 4, M. Zhylanbaev (Articles 258 and 405 of the Criminal Code of Kazakhstan, 7 years imprisonment). Lawyer D. Malyuga visited M. Zhylanbaev and reported on the marathon runner’s health: “The pain is located in the fourth rib on the right side. His urine is foamy, and he gets leg cramps in the morning”[15].

August 5, according to UNESCO, Kazakhstan leads the world in the number of students studying abroad. The country ranks ninth in the world, with 91,200 students studying abroad. However, most students have no intention of returning to their country of origin. Nearly one in twenty is of the opinion that “there is no hope for advancement in Kazakhstan”[16].

August 5, July: the Geneva-based Center for Civil and Political Rights published a review of the United Nations Human Rights Committee’s 2024 decisions on citizen appeals. Kazakhstan is among the countries with the most complaints filed against them. The right to freedom of peaceful assembly was the second most popular after Belarus[17].

August 5, Uralsk, Institution No. 27, A. Utepov (Article 190, Part 3, Article 367, Part 3 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 7 years’ imprisonment). “Finally, a letter from Aslan has arrived! I will publish it. This will help people understand what is happening in our penal system. I want to draw the Anti-Corruption Committee of the National Security Committee’s attention to the problem of replacing unserved sentences with lighter punishments and conditional early release. They need to investigate the penal system and catch the corrupt ‘cats in uniform,’” said human rights activist B. Toregozhina[18].

August 5, Mary Lawlor, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders, expressed concern over the administrative fine imposed on human rights defender B. Toregozhina under Article 456-2, Part 3 of the Code of Administrative Offenсes of the RK for allegedly “spreading false information.” The fine was equivalent to 20 MCI, or 78,640 tenge[19].

August 6, Astana: The government of Kazakhstan has made sweeping changes to the Rules for Classifying and Working with Restricted Information. Resolution No. 598, issued on August 6, 2025, overhauls the system for handling information marked “For Official Use Only” and “Confidential”. This resolution centralizes control over all official information, introduces different “secrecy regimes” for various departments, and grants the financial and security bloc special powers[20].

August 6, Almaty: A press conference was held at the KIBHR office regarding the critical health condition of M. Zhylanbaev (Articles 258 and 405 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 7 years’ imprisonment), a super marathon runner and leader of the unregistered political party Alga, Kazakhstan![21].

August 6, Astana: Independent journalists L. Akhmedyarov and R. Uporov announced that they had regained access to their YouTube channel, “Prosto Zhurnalistika” (Just Journalism), which had previously been blocked[22].

August 6, Kazakhstan’s penal institutions have seen a monthly increase of 200–300 inmates. In light of this increased workload, the Ministry of Internal Affairs is considering providing additional funding to the Penal System Committee. This issue will be discussed at the next Republican Budget Commission meeting during the budget adjustment process[23].

August 6, Akmola Region, settlement of Granitny. A. Abishev and K. Amrenov arrived at Institution No. 7 to visit A. Syzdykov (Article 297 of the Criminal Code of Kazakhstan, 5 years imprisonment). However, the administration did not allow them to enter. They cited some unclear internal regulation[24].

August 7, Almaty: Almalinsky District Court. It is claimed by Blogger A. Dostiyarov that he and independent journalist K. Mubarak were “without any explanation” removed from the courtroom by Judge E. Kasymbekov. The judge had accused them of “spreading information and putting pressure on the court”. The blogger sees this as “discrimination”, pointing out that state media representatives are allowed to enter the courtroom[25].

August 7, Karaganda: A new criminal case was opened against the activists under Article 272, Part 1 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. On July 2, 2025, the Astana City Court issued an arrest warrant for Zhanseitov B. (born in 1973), Keneshbaev E. (born in 1985), and Tokmurzin B. (born in 1973), who were arrested and detained for two months. The grounds for the arrest were as follows: “On August 24, 2024, at a time not established by the investigation, they held a meeting with other individuals not identified by the investigation”[26].

August 7, Almaty: Representatives of the Alga Kazakhstan party stated that their “key and unwavering position is the immediate release of M. Zhylanbaev” (charged under Articles 258 and 405 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan and sentenced to seven years’ imprisonment)[27].

August 7, Almaty: B. Imangalieva, Article 488, Part 6 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The court found B. Imangalieva guilty of participating in an unauthorized rally in Stepnogorsk on April 7, 2025, in support of M. Zhylanbaev. She was sentenced to 10 days of administrative arrest (Article 258, 405 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan)[28].

August 7, Atyrau: The court rejected the request by blogger K. Idrisova (Article 194 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, “extortion”) to change from pretrial detention to house arrest. Article 380 of the Criminal Code of Kazakhstan, which concerns the use of violence against a representative of authority, was added to the case. She allegedly resisted the police during her detention[29].

August 8, West Kazakhstan Region: In 2024, residents of Bolashak village approached human rights activist Bauyrzhan Zaki with a problem concerning pasture land that had been illegally transferred to D. Karimov in 2017. After an appeal was made to the prosecutor’s office and the Department of Land Resources Management, it was ruled by the court that the transfer of land was illegal[30].

August 8, Taraz: Police detained a suspect in the enslavement of children in the Zhambyl region. According to ministry representative Sh. Alekeshev, the Minister of Internal Affairs took personal control of the case. Earlier, the initiation of a criminal case was reported on by Children’s Ombudsman D. Zakieva[31].

August 8, Almaty: The court heard an appeal in the case of the spread of false information about teacher S. Seidakhmetova, who claimed that children were being fed leftovers. The company “Rai-Ka”, which had provided meals for students at School No. 67 for many years, filed the lawsuit against her. The court’s ruling was in favor of teacher S. Seidakhmetova[32].

August 8, Almaty Region: The Talgar Court announced its ruling in the civil lawsuit filed against journalist Zh. Baitelova; blogger B. Nakysbekov; N. Shumakova; and E. Usoltseva. The lawsuit sought compensation for damages caused by the dissemination of defamatory information. The court denied Zh. Tretyak’s claim for compensation “for damage caused by the dissemination of defamatory information”[33].

August 8, Atyrau: Court No. 2 sentenced local resident NN to five years in prison under Article 172 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan (“Participation in Armed Conflicts on the Territory of a Foreign State”). According to the case file, the man signed a contract with the Russian armed forces while working in Russia and participated in combat operations, receiving shrapnel wound in the process[34].

August 8, USA: Congressman D. McGovern noted the following facts: the fabrication of charges against B. Mendygaziev after he refused bribes; the freezing of his accounts and the confiscation of his investments; and the repression of members of his family in Kazakhstan[35].

August 8, Astana: The court agreed with NN, a resident, who had argued against the denial of a care allowance for her disabled son (Group I) after he turned majority. The court determined that the state agency’s actions were not warranted, observing that the son’s health condition remained unchanged after reaching adulthood and that he continued to require constant care[36].

August 8, Almaty: Jacob Vorontsov announced that the collection of signatures for letters to Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew was coming to an end. The letters were part of an initiative to establish a representative office of the Patriarchate of Constantinople in Kazakhstan. This office would be an Orthodox structure independent of the Moscow Patriarchate[37].

August 8, Astana: The Ministry of Education has announced that, starting September 1, 2025, all schools will implement the anti-bullying program “DosbolLIKE”. In June 2024, new laws in Kazakhstan took effect that made it illegal to bully someone under 18. The Code of Administrative Offenses of the Republic of Kazakhstan was updated with the addition of Article 127-2, which deals with harassment (bullying, cyberbullying) of a minor[38].

August 9, Aktau: City residents appealed to the Office of the President of Kazakhstan, as well as the regional and city administrations, with complaints about environmental problems in the city, including the suffocating stench from the Koshkar-Ata industrial tailings pond[39].

August 9, Aktau: Kamila Kabieva’s one-and-a-half-year-old child was beaten at daycare. An investigation has been launched. Two two-year-old girls beat the toddler for more than half an hour. In a video of the incident, the girls can be seen biting the toddler in various parts of her body, kicking her, and banging her head against a bed. The kindergarten tried to cover up the incident[40].

August 10, Kostanay Region: Officials in the Mendykarinsky and Kamystinsky districts have created an environment conducive to corruption in the provision of school meals for children from low-income families. They are also covering up violations committed by Gudial, an unscrupulous supplier[41].

August 11, Astana: A. Zhylanbaeva, the daughter of M. Zhylanbaev (Articles 258 and 405 of the Criminal Code of Kazakhstan, 7 years’ imprisonment), delivered a video statement expounding on the deplorable state of her father’s health, the deplorable conditions of his imprisonment, and the systematic violations of his rights within the penal colony[42].

August 11, Ust-Kamenogorsk: Court No. 2 found blogger A. Knyazev guilty under Article 194, Part 2 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, sentencing him to four years in prison. The court ordered Knyazev to pay 500,000 tenge in moral damages to police officers A. Altaev, D. Shakirtov, and R. Dauletkhanov[43].

August 11, Almaty: Lawyer D. Karim and M. Duduev reported violations that occurred in February 2018 at the Altynkol customs post. Seventeen people received various prison terms as a result. The official version presented a battle against corruption, but many participants in these events have a different perspective, claiming that their actions were actually in opposition to the interests of another party[44].

August 11, Akmola Region: Disappointment in the work of the akimat and interdepartmental structures was expressed by the residents of the village of Aksuat of the Yereimentau district to the President of Kazakhstan. They claim that the “Taza Kazakhstan” campaign was a failure. The streets are filled with garbage, and crucial tasks like road infrastructure, transportation, and lighting remain unfinished [45].

August 11, Stepnogorsk: Following a visit to political prisoner M. Zhylanbaev (Articles 258 and 405 of the Criminal Code of Kazakhstan, 7 years’ imprisonment), lawyer D. Malyuga expressed concern over potential provocation by the administration of Institution No. 4 in the Akmola region[46].

August 11, Uralsk: The court found Zh. Bashanov guilty under Articles 174, Part 1 and 256, Part 2 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The court charged him with “inciting discord” and “propagating terrorism” and sentenced him to seven years’ imprisonment[47].

August 11, the Omir Syyy, Omir Tynysy, Senim, Novoye Dykhanie, Bereket societies — which comprise patients who have undergone organ and tissue transplants — appealed to President K. Tokayev. The societies expressed concern about the Ministry of Health’s attempt to adopt an order dated June 30, 2025, which they claim violates current legislation and infringes on their rights[48].

August 12, Astana: Prime Minister O. Bektanov responded to a request from members of the Mazhilis, saying that measures to improve the infrastructure of the penal system are provided for in the Concept for Ensuring Public Safety for 2024-2028 (Government Resolution No. 1233 of December 29, 2023)[49].

August 12, Astana: The scandal involving the Baganashyl orphanage led to the dismissal of the deputy akim of the Almaty region and two other officials, Minister G. Beisembayev reported. To prevent similar situations in the future, an interdepartmental commission, which includes government agencies and the public, is working on site[50].

August 12, Almaty: A girl using the nickname Kuralay posted a video saying that volunteers’ rights had been violated at Jay Lo’s concert. She also complained about the organizers’ attitude. “Most of us were minors, and we worked from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. There were problems with food and water, and no transportation was provided”[51].

August 12, Atyrau: Lawyer Zh. Urazbakova visited blogger R. Nigmetova in a pre-trial detention center. Nigmetova was sentenced to six and a half years in prison. Urazbakova reported that “the conditions of detention are terrible. It would be the perfect setting for films about war and the repressions of 1937”[52].

August 12, Astana: G. Beisembayev, the Minister of Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, confirmed that wearing a hijab or headscarf to school is prohibited. Current legislation establishes rules for mandatory school uniforms, and schools must enforce strict compliance with these rules[53].

August 12, Almaty: S. Karakulova, an employee of a special nursery school for children with severe musculoskeletal and speech disorders, publicly called on the Tanim trade union to stop pressuring schools and kindergartens. The union has been imposing membership, threatening unjustified inspections, and interfering in their work. This has created an atmosphere of fear and undermined the reputation of teachers[54].

August 12, North Kazakhstan Region Residents and shareholders of Novosvetlovka village in the Aiyartau district addressed the President of the country, asking for their support. Complaints have been made that local authorities are responding formally to their requests and pressing problems are not being solved. The people are demanding that their issues be addressed with honesty and transparency, particularly regarding land shares, the protection of their rights, and the restoration of justice[55].

August 12, Astana: Amendments were made to the Criminal Code that removed the provision prohibiting parole based on a type of punishment that no longer existed. According to the Constitutional Court, Article 72(8)(1) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan is unconstitutional. This article states that parole does not apply to individuals whose death penalty was replaced with imprisonment due to a pardon or the abolishment of the death penalty [56].

August 12, Atyrau Region: Employees of the ZheldorTrans-Aktobe railway company continue to demand an end to the prosecutor’s office’s arbitrary actions. They have appealed to the President of Kazakhstan. They are asking him to stop the attempted hostile takeover of the company[57].

August 12, Zhambyl region: A criminal case was opened against a stepfather after a video surfaced in which children recounted being held captive in their own home for five years, being beaten, and being forced to work long hours. Local officials and an imam are also facing charges because they knew about the situation but did nothing[58].

August 12, Uralsk: M. Aisautov, Uralsk Maslikhat deputy, sent a parliamentary inquiry to the prosecutor regarding political prisoner A. Utepov’s situation. (Article 190, Part 3, and Article 367, Part 3 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 7 years’ imprisonment). This was in response to the questionable disciplinary penalty imposed on the activist five days before he was granted parole[59].

August 12, Taraz: This May, a student named NN from one of the schools attacked a classmate and displayed “indecent rudeness” towards him, according to the court. The guilt was proven in full by the case materials. The parent was found guilty by the court under Article 127-2, Part 3 of the Code of Administrative Offenses, “Bullying (cyberbullying) of a minor”, and an administrative fine of 27,000 tenge was imposed on her[60].

August 13, Zhezkazgan: Institution No. 62, N. Altaev, Article 366, Part 4 of the Criminal Code of Kazakhstan, 10 years’ imprisonment. His stay in the disciplinary isolation ward was extended. It was extended by another six months. The reason was that he lay down on the bed due to pain. Earlier, a razor blade had been planted on him[61].

August 13, Lawyer D. Zhubatova reported that a criminal case had been opened against her for defamation, based on a complaint filed by the injured party. The court registered the case for disclosure of pre-trial investigation data in a previously opened criminal case. Zhubatova appealed to President K. Tokayev, Prosecutor General B. Asylov, and Minister of Internal Affairs E. Sadenov, requesting they take special control over the issue of obstruction of lawful lawyer activities and stop the persecution of lawyers[62].

August 13, Almaty: The satirical news agency Qaznews24 decided to shut down due to pressure from law enforcement agencies targeting the relatives of its editorial staff and launching new investigations[63].

August 13, Karaganda, Kuryanovka village: The construction of a hazardous medical waste incineration plant was met with opposition from residents. They argued that the plant would contribute to air pollution and negatively impact the health of the population, particularly children and the elderly. They appealed to the President and Government of Kazakhstan. They demanded that the government completely abandon the implementation of this project. They also demanded that the government put an end to this issue once and for all[64].

August 14, Almaty: It was stated by independent expert A. Kairzhanov to the court that mass riots were not planned by activists N. Temirgaliev, F. Sydykov, and Zh. Kazakbay, A. Mubarakov, and N. Zhaulybaev (Article 272 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan), that no funds were collected by them, and that extremist ideas were not promoted by them. “They expressed their opinion against the construction of a nuclear power plant” [65].

August 14, Astana: The Supreme Court of Kazakhstan overturned the lower courts’ decisions and granted M. Dauylov’s appeal. Dauylov, a visually impaired person of Group 1 from Aktobe, had challenged the legality of the Akim’s decision to declare a state of emergency and ban rallies[66].

August 14, Akmola Region, Granitny village, Institution No. 7, A. Syzdykov (Article 297 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 5 years’ imprisonment). The court granted the request to apply amnesty to A. Syzdykov. A. Syzdykov’s remaining prison term was reduced by one year, two months, and 17 days. Consequently, the remaining term is 2 years and 5 months, which would allow him to petition for a more lenient sentence and for conditional early release[67].

August 14, Ust-Kamenogorsk: The court was approached by Orphan Ch. Kurmankhan, who made an appeal regarding an alteration to the regulations that govern the enrollment process for the housing waiting list. The court reprimanded a housing and utilities employee who did not add the orphan to the general waiting list. This means the orphan will have to wait 20 years for an apartment[68].

August 14, Zhambyl region: a retired history teacher who wanted to work until the end of the school year was dismissed by the principal. An appeal was made to the court by the teacher, and it was ruled that the administration’s actions were illegal. The court ordered the school to pay the teacher 2.1 million tenge for the period she was forced to be absent from work[69].

August 15, Stepnogorsk: Lawyer D. Malyuga visited M. Zhylanbaev (Articles 258 and 405 of the Criminal Code of the RK, 7 years’ imprisonment) at Institution No. 4. The lawyer found that the prisoner’s rights were being violated. Zhylanbaev was denied access to video calls and was harassed by other prisoners. The administration did not issue a power of attorney to Toregozhina. Zhylanbaev’s blood pressure was 69/42, and his pulse was 37[70].

August 15, Astana: The wives of D. Abdimanov, M. Medirkulov, Ramazanov, and Abdullaev claimed that their husbands were facing prison time simply for reading two books. The men read religious literature and held discussions at home. The books were downloaded from websites and found on one of the detainees’ phones. According to R. Akbarova’s expert opinion, the men are charged under Articles 174, 405, and 256 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan.[71].

August 15, Kostanay Region: The Zhitikara District Administration denied permission for residents of Stantsionnoye and Prigorodnoye villages to hold a rally protesting the dismantling of a well. Furthermore, the akimat sent heavy equipment to demolish the well in a show of force. Residents complain that the state is deaf to their concerns.[72].

August 15, the OSCE ODIHR mission received active assistance from human rights defenders in monitoring the trials related to the January 2022 events[73].

August 15, Astana: The court found A. Dzhabasova guilty under Article 488, Part 6 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Republic of Kazakhstan for protesting near the House of Ministries and sentenced her to 15 days in detention. A. Dzhabasova is a single mother who supports her disabled son (Group 1). She is requesting assistance in obtaining free diapers for her son and other benefits[74].

August 15, East Kazakhstan Region, cite of Zaysan: Police broke into Zulfiya Saduakas’s home. The court charged her under Article 488, Part 6 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK for participating in a rally in support of M. Zhylanbaev in Stepnogorsk, near institution No. 7, on April 7, 2025. Z. Saduakas was taken away for questioning about the purpose of her visit[75].

August 15, the Aktobe region established the country’s first Office for the Protection of Children’s Rights. This new department will play a pivotal role in reforming child welfare agencies. Complaints will be addressed more swiftly, and collaboration among all services responsible for child welfare will be more organized[76].

August 15, Petropavlovsk: The regional court concluded its review of the appeal filed by professional martial arts instructor A. Konkaev, who was sentenced to six years in prison under Article 174 of the Criminal Code of the RK. The judicial panel denied the appeal. A. Konkaev was convicted for posting in support of Palestine[77].

August 15, Atyrau: The judicial panel denied the appeal of blogger R. Nigmetova, who was sentenced to 6.5 years of imprisonment under Article 190 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and upheld the initial verdict, deeming it lawful and justified[78].

August 16, Astana: Kazakhstan amended Article 177 of its Criminal Code of the RK. The amendment means that former President Nazarbayev is no longer protected from assassination attempts intended to obstruct his current lawful activities[79].

August 17, Republic of Kazakhstan: On the day of the marathon in support of M. Zhylanbaev (Articles 258 and 405 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 7 years’ imprisonment), activists and human rights defenders were detained in various regions. The organizers timed the marathon to coincide with M. Zhylanbaev’s birthday[80].

August 17, Almaty: B. Toregozhina, a human rights activist, reported that she had been taken into custody in Gandhi Park and was being transported to the Almalinsky District Police Department. A few hours later, she got back in touch. She described the incident as persecution for her human rights activities[81].

August 17, Uralsk: Police officers detained activists R. Karieva and M. Eskendirova while they were running in honor of political prisoner M. Zhylanbaev (Articles 405 and 258 of the Criminal Code of the RK, 7 years’ imprisonment). The activists were later released[82].

August 17, East Kazakhstan Region, Bobrovka village: Activist S. Idyryshev was detained for an administrative offense while en route to the venue of a marathon dedicated to M. Zhylanbaev. (Articles 258 and 405 of the Criminal Code of the RK, 7 years’ imprisonment)[83].

August 17, Shymkent: E. Konshbaev, a member of the newly formed party “Alga, Kazakhstan!”, was detained while on his way to a marathon dedicated to M. Zhylanbaev. (Articles 405 and 258 of the Criminal Code of the RK, 7 years’ imprisonment)[84].

August 18, a list was published of activists and human rights defenders in Kazakhstan’s regions who were surveilled and detained on the day of the marathon in support of M. Zhylanbayev. (Articles 258 and 405 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 7 years’ imprisonment)[85].

August 18, Almaty: At a press conference in Almaty, Zh. Aimbetov and other former employees who lost their health at the Karatau phosphorus ore mining enterprise in the Zhambyl region once again raised the issue of unfair compensation, addressing President K. Tokayev[86].

August 18, Astana: The trial of seven Radio Azattyk journalists, who are seeking to have the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ denial of their accreditation declared illegal, continued. In court, it was revealed that the journalists have still not received a decision regarding the denial[87].

August 18, the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) urged the Kazakh authorities to grant accreditation to the 16 Radio Azattyk journalists.[88].

August 19, Taraz: B. Baktybaev reported that he had been detained and was being taken to the police department to be formally detained on the day of the marathon in support of M. Zhylanbaev. (Articles 258 and 405 of the Criminal Code of the RK, 7 years’ imprisonment)[89].

August 19, Almaty: Open Appeal of the KIBHR Regarding the Detention of Human Rights Defender B. Toregozhina on August 17, 2025. KIBHR views this detention as a significant, unlawful, and brazen infringement on legal principles and widely accepted standards. The detention violates both national legislation and international standards. It reflects the practice of “preventive detention”. This practice has been repeatedly criticized in documents and reports by the UN Human Rights Committee, the OSCE ODIHR, and Human Rights Watch[90].

August 19, Astana: The law now holds individuals accountable for coercing someone into marriage. The Republic of Kazakhstan’s new Article 125-1, introduced into the Criminal Code, implements the concept of “law and order” and ensures zero tolerance for offenses. This article provides criminal liability for coercion into marriage[91].

August 19, Almaty: Chechen activist M. Movlaev, who had previously criticized the Chechen authorities and later sought asylum in Kazakhstan for fear of extradition to his homeland, had his status as an asylum seeker extended by the Kazakh authorities[92].

August 19, Astana: The Chairman of the Supreme Court, A.A. Mergaliev, was approached by the Foundation for the Protection of Freedom of Speech “Adil Soz” regarding an incident that occurred during the trial concerning the assassination attempt on the deputy mayor of Shymkent, R. Berdenov. During the hearing, Judge A. Karabayev displayed a behavior that was not consistent with the high status of a judge. In full view of the press and the other parties involved in the case, he openly expressed his disdain for Astana journalist B. Omas by sticking his tongue out at him[93].

August 19, Aktobe Region: Employees of Yanguangtianchuan LLC, a Beijing-based partner of KMK Munai JSC, recorded an appeal to President Tokayev. The workers are asking for higher wages and an end to pressure from management. They report working in difficult conditions involving high temperatures and pressures, as well as the use of acids and alkalis[94].

August 19, Stepnogorsk: According to the report by lawyer D. Malyuga, M. Zhylanbaev (Articles 405 and 258 of the Criminal Code of the RK, 7 years’ imprisonment) had developed severe swelling, waking up in the morning with pronounced edema, and was not being given the necessary medication[95].

August 20, the decision of the authorities to deny accreditation to Azattyk journalists is strongly criticized by Reporters Without Borders. This decision follows a court ruling that upheld the Kazakh Foreign Ministry’s refusal as “lawful”. RSF issued a special statement[96].

August 20, Petropavlovsk: The Court of Appeals denied Zh. Kopeev’s appeal (Article 174 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 3.5 years of imprisonment). The court ruled to uphold the July 1, 2025, sentence[97].

August 20, statement by Human Rights Watch: Human rights defender B. Toregozhina was detained by police and held in custody for several hours as part of criminal investigation into allegations of her involvement with a banned organization. One of Kazakhstan’s most prominent human rights defenders was clearly targeted for her peaceful activities, and intimidation and harassment were used as tools in this case[98].

August 20, Kostanay: For the first time, Institution No. 38 of the Penal System has installed a remote access control system. It uses video intercoms in local areas of the detachments. The access control and management system (ACMS) plays a critical role in the penal system. This is because access control is not only a matter of security, but also an element of law and order, accounting, and managing the movements of convicts[99].

August 20, West Kazakhstan Region: A total of 150 convicts serving sentences in penal institutions in the West Kazakhstan region are covered by the law “On Amnesty in Connection with the 30th Anniversary of the Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan”[100].

August 20, East Kazakhstan Region, Glubokoe village, the district court found activist S. Idirychev guilty under Article 488, Part 12 of the Administrative Offenses Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan for reposting on social media. The court fined the activist 192,000 tenge. [101].

August 20, Kostanay: The TobolInfo news agency reported that residents have complained about poor mobile service. There are regular interruptions on Dzhangildina Street No. 54. The network is unavailable due to jammers installed near the Republican State Institution, also known as “Institution No. 76”, a pre-trial detention center. The Beeline office confirmed this fact. “Cell network jamming systems were activated at the specified address at Institution No. 76. The impact extends to all 2/3/4G networks within a radius of up to 1,000 meters”, the mobile operator said in a statement[102].

August 20, Uralsk: The city court began hearing the complaint of activist A. Utepov against the actions of the administration of Institution No. 27 in imposing a penalty on him (Articles 190, Part 3, and 367, Part 3 of the Criminal Code of the RK, 7 years’ imprisonment). “This penalty was ordered out of the blue, literally one and a half weeks before the application to replace the punishment with a more lenient one was filed”, said the activist’s wife[103].

August 20, Stepnogorsk: Institution No. 4, M. Zhylanbaev (Articles 405(2) and 258(2) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 7 years’ imprisonment). Marat’s colleagues and friends decided to record a video congratulating him on his birthday. However, prosecutors, an akimat employee, and three patrol cars arrived at the location where the video was being recorded. The attempt to record a collective video to express congratulations was declared an unauthorized rally, and a fine was issued to everyone present for violating traffic rules[104].

August 20, Almaty: B. Toregozhina, Article 456-2, Part 3 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK, fine of 78,640 tenge. The city court denied B. Toregozhina’s appeal. This decision was announced in her absence, without her lawyer or representatives present[105].

August 20, Astana: The court ruled on the lawsuit filed by Radio Azattyk against the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding the refusal to accredit seven of the media corporation’s journalists. The judge announced the court’s decision, stating that the ministry’s decision was lawful and that the lawsuit was therefore dismissed[106].

August 21, Akmola Region, village of Granitny, Institution No. 7. Lawyer D. Malyuga met with his client, A. Syzdykov, to discuss filing a petition for Aidar’s replacement of the unserved part of the sentence with a more lenient form of punishment and conditional early release. The lawyer stated that Aidar was not presented with the documents containing the 13 reports. He was informed that the document was internal and could not be disclosed in response to the lawyer’s official request. Concurrently, the attorney was informed that he could examine the document on the premises, a possibility that was not pursued. This is a direct violation[107].

August 22, Almaty: The necessity of submitting a request for parole for D. Namazbaev, who was sentenced to five years under Article 179, Part 2 of the Criminal Code of the RK, was announced by Lawyer Zh. Balgabaeva and activists. Despite positive character references and the fact that he has three minor children and a wife with a Group III disability, the applications for parole were rejected[108].

August 22, Almaty: Details about the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of A. Turganbay in China have been released. A. Turganbay, a Kazakhstani citizen who returned to his homeland nine years ago and is of ethnic Kazakh origin, had visited relatives in Xinjiang on numerous occasions. However, when he traveled to Kuldja on business this summer, he was detained by Chinese police and is being held in an unknown location. He has not been able to contact his relatives or access Kazakh diplomats[109].

August 22, as stated by the Ranking Portal, the quantity of legal actions initiated against Akimats and Ministries increased by nearly 100%. The number of lawsuits against government agencies filed in court increased significantly from 2021 to 2024. In 2021, 14,500 lawsuits were filed. By 2024, the number had increased to 32,900. This represents a 23.7% increase compared to the previous year[110].

August 22, Astana: Starting on August 31, 2025, carriers and companies selling tickets for air, rail, and sea transportation in Kazakhstan must submit passenger information directly to authorized state and law enforcement agencies. These changes were ordered by the acting Minister of Transport[111].

August 22, the Clooney Foundation for Justice (CFJ) is deeply concerned about the increasing harassment of human rights defender B. Toregozhina, one of our monitors in Kazakhstan. Earlier this week, authorities detained her without cause during her morning walk. The authorities held her for several hours. They questioned her about a rally planned to protest the imprisonment of M. Zhylanbaev. He is another victim of Kazakhstan’s crackdown on dissent[112].

August 22, Astana: E. Bekzadina was detained in front of her minor children by police, who then took her away. This caused psychological trauma to the children. The court found the activist guilty under Article 488 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK and fined her 50 MCI (196,600 tenge) for participating in a run on August 17, 2025, in support of M. Zhylanbaev[113].

August 22, Almaty: The court sentenced D. Ardakul to 15 days of administrative arrest under Article 488, Part 7 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK for demanding that the new School No. 215, which will open on September 1, use Kazakh as the language of instruction. The catalyst for this movement was a social media post that read, “Let’s go to school” and “School No. 215 should be Kazakh”[114].

August 23, following Russia’s lead, Kazakhstan is working on introducing its own messenger app, Aitu. Social media users immediately began speculating. They thought it would be similar to Russia’s Max. They predicted that foreign messenger apps would be blocked in the country. The Ministry of Digital Development insists that such comparisons are incorrect and inaccurate[115].

August 23, Taraz: V. Kolchenkova, the head of the NGO “Dobrye Serdtsa Taraza” (Kind Hearts of Taraz), was attacked by two women. It is believed by V. Kolchenkova that the purpose of such actions is to discredit her ahead of the upcoming appeal hearing in a legal dispute with blogger T. Nurmatova. Previously, Court No. 2 determined T. Nurmatova to be culpable under Article 131, Part 2 of the Criminal Code of the RK and imposed a fine of 73,840 tenge[116].

August 23, Aktau: T. Latifov released a video statement detailing the cruel treatment of his children by his ex-wife’s family. He stated that his 6-year-old daughter was “drowned in a bucket” by her stepfather and that the children were compelled to study at night and were not permitted to sleep. His daughter complained of regular beatings. His older stepson ran away from home. He reported the abuse. His younger daughter sent her father a video. She was afraid to speak directly about the beatings[117].

August 25, Amsterdam: A protest was held by several Kazakhstani citizens, demanding the release of Kazakh political prisoners. The protest took place in front of the Kazakh embassy in the Netherlands. Activists chanted: “Free M. Zhylanbayev! Free D. Mukhammedkarim and A. Tleuzha!”[118].

August 24, Karaganda Region: The residents of the village of Kyzylqayyn are upset. They appealed to President K. Tokayev for help one and a half months ago. The situation in their village has only worsened since then. Questions are being raised about Ak Orda’s lack of consideration for the voices of everyday people. Is the “Listening Kazakhstan” concept no longer in use?[119].

August 25, Almaty: The city administration refused to allow N. Aitelinov to hold a solo picket in support of B. Toregozhina on August 25 and 29, 2025. The picket was to take place near the Almaty City Court building and the business center. The refusal was explained by the fact that “pickets are prohibited on the territory adjacent to organizations ensuring the defense capability, security of the state, and the vital functions of the population (addition to the law of August 28, 2024, No. 144)”. No alternative location was offered[120].

August 25, Uralsk: The local government did not allow activists B. Utebayev and R. Karyev to have a rally in the “Slavniye Docheri Kazakhstana”park on August 30, 2025. The topic of the rally was: The demands are threefold: the release of political prisoners in Kazakhstan, an end to the escalating costs of food, medicine, and utilities, and a raise in salaries, pensions, and benefits. The local government did not specify the reason for the refusal[121].

August 25, Almaty: the Foundation for the Protection of Freedom of Speech “Adіl soz” is concerned about attempts to gain unauthorized access to journalist O. Gusev’s messengers, which came with the deactivation of his SIM card. This case is considered by the Foundation not only as a threat to a specific person, but also as a signal of potential threats to the integrity of the system of trust in the country’s digital space[122].

August 25, Residents of West Kazakhstan Region made a claim. They said that their son, Isabek, was tortured and beaten. This happened at the regional psychiatric center. An immediate investigation by the prosecutor’s office and relevant authorities is being demanded by his parents. “My son has changed so much that he can’t stand still now. When we brought him home, he attempted to run away”, says his mother, Galiyash. [123].

August 25, Almaty: Judge E. Kasymbekov removed all journalists from the courtroom. This happened during the trial in the Almalinsky District Court. The trial was in the case of activists N. Zhaulibayev, Zh. Kazakbay, F. Syzdykov, N. Temirgaliev, and A. Mubarakov. They were detained on charges of “attempting to organize mass riots”. This was before the referendum on the construction of a nuclear power plant[124].

August 25, an open letter was sent by T. Kusainov, head of the NGO “Demos”. In the letter, he requests an investigation into the biography, reputation, and moral responsibility of Metropolitan Alexander of Astana and Kazakhstan (born Mogilev), the representative of the Russian Orthodox Church who has led the Russian Orthodox Church in Kazakhstan since 2010[125].

August 26, Akmola Region: A. Syzdykov from Institution No. 7 reported that the terminals for convicts to send complaints were not working. Furthermore, he discovered that on August 19, 2025, the administration had submitted documents to the relevant authorities, containing alterations to the appeal’s text. This action constitutes a criminal offence[126].

August 26, Almaty: The court handed down a verdict against N. Zhaulybaev, A. Mubarakov, N. Temirgaliev, and Zh. Kazakbay and F. Sydykov. They were found guilty under Article 272, Part 3 of the Criminal Code of the RK and sentenced to four years of restricted liberty. They are also prohibited from engaging in public activities or creating or joining political parties for five years[127].

August 26, Almaty: the reasons for the expulsion of journalists from Radio Azattyk from the courtroom where the case of five defendants accused of “attempting to organize mass riots” was being heard were explained by Judge E. Kasymbekov of the Almalinsky District Court. The judge stated that the journalists were removed ignorantly when he intended to remove other media representatives[128].

August 26, Aktau: Conductors on trains No. 109 and No. 110 of the Otpan Logistic company, which operates the “Mangistau-Aktobe” route, appealed to President K. Tokayev, the chairman of KTZ LLP, and the regional akim with complaints about working conditions. As stated by the workers, their social benefits package was cut down, and their pensions and regular disbursements were terminated. The conductors claim that this has significantly deteriorated their working conditions and deprived them of their usual benefits[129].

August 27, Astana: The Ministry of Health declined to share with the Bes.Media portal information regarding the health status of M. Zhylanbayev. “Any information about M. Zhylanbaev’s state of health is confidential medical information”. The Ministry of Health has stated that, according to Article 273, Part 1 of the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health”, personal medical data, information about seeking medical assistance, a person’s state of health, and diagnosis are considered confidential medical information[130].

August 27, Astana: The Administrative Court began hearing the case against lawyer M. Doskarayev under Article 456-2, Part 3 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The case was referred to the court based on a police officer’s report. According to the report, Doskarayev “posted and disseminated false information”[131].

August 27, Almaty: The family of A. Turganbay, a Kazakhstani citizen who disappeared in China, his wife G. Sherizatkyzy, and his daughter R. Alimnur went to the city akimat for the purpose of recording a video message to the President of Kazakhstan. This is their eighth attempt to draw the attention of the authorities. Previous attempts near the Chinese consulate and the Kazakh Foreign Ministry led to fines for violating the rules for holding peaceful gatherings[132].

August 27, the gov.kz website reports that the country is continuing to develop a mentoring program aimed at providing individual support to orphans and children who have lost parental care. To date, the role of mentor has been accepted by more than 360 citizens in 20 regions of the republic[133].

August 27, Kostanay: the investigative court considered and granted the request of the investigation and the regional prosecutor’s office to extend the detention of M. Sarsenbayev (Article 194, Part 4, Clause 2 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan) for another 20 days until September 19, 2025[134].

August 28, Astana: The administrative court dismissed the case against lawyer M. Doskarayev. The police had charged him under Article 456-2 of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK. They charged him for “publishing and disseminating false information”. The judge announced that the court dismissed the case because there was no administrative offense[135].

August 28, Astana: Another court case started in the court for administrative affairs. It was about the lawsuit that Radio Azattyk brought against the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The ministry did not give permission for nine journalists to work. The court is hearing a new case about accreditation being denied. The plaintiff’s representatives assert that there is no justification for denying accreditation. The defendant disagrees[136].

August 28, Taldykorgan: V. Druzin, a member of the Public Council, uses his own experience to illustrate the challenges faced by people with disabilities in Taldykorgan. Officials from the Taldykorgan City Administration have promised to address Vadim’s concerns and rectify the situation[137].

August 29, West Kazakhstan Region, RU-170/2 institution, B. Mendygaziev (Articles 245(3), 218(2)(3), and 262(2) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 5.1 years imprisonment). B. Mendygaziev was released because his prison term had expired[138].

August 29, the ORDA.KZ portal reported that Kazakh authorities are drafting a new law on non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Activists and experts are sounding the alarm because the country may face increased bureaucracy, labeling, and state control. Some are concerned that Kazakhstan will adopt a “foreign agent” status akin to that in Russia. Meanwhile, the new Tax Code imposes special obligations on organizations that receive funds from foreign states, foundations, and private donors[139].

August 29, Atyrau: M.Mukhanbetaliyev, a 62-year-old man, has been trying to obtain an electric wheelchair for over a year. But he has been denied each time. On November 15, 2010, he was hit by a locomotive while returning from work. In addition to being denied a wheelchair, he did not receive basic care items such as diapers[140].

August 30, Karaganda Region: Residents of Pionerskoe Village in the Osakarovsky District sent an appeal to President K. Tokayev. They asked the head of state to address their issues with the water supply, electricity, flooding, and garbage dumps. The local administration either ignores these issues or postpones addressing them indefinitely[141].

August 30, Taraz: Workers at BM LLP recorded a video message for President K. Tokayev. They are asking for attention to be paid to the Economic Investigations Department in the Zhambyl region, which they claim is acting lawlessly. It is believed by the people that individuals who were once dismissed for illegal actions against BM LLP are involved in the persecution[142].

August 30, Almaty: On Constitution Day, E. Kuandyk and other public figures appealed to President K. Tokayev, demanding an end to the lawlessness plaguing Kazakhstan’s judicial and legal systems[143].

August 31, Ust-Kamenogorsk: A group of participants in the National Preventive Mechanism for the Prevention of Torture in East Kazakhstan Region visited Institution No. 73. Institution No. 73 is a pre-trial detention center. It is operated by the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The following violations were identified:

— The conditions for storing visitors’ personal belongings need to be improved.

— The conditions for holding women with children need to be improved[144].

August 31, Astana: The court once again found A. Dzhabasova guilty of violating Article 488 of the Republic of the Code of Administrative Offences of the RK and sentenced her to 15 days in jail. This was based on a protest action she held near the House of Ministries in Astana. A. Dzhabasova, a single mother of a son with a disability, demanded assistance, diapers, and other benefits[145].

[1] https://www.instagram.com/reel/DMz51pkNxal/?igsh=MWprcDhyd3FnMzgybg%3D%3D

[2] https://kaztag.kz/ru/news/sotrudnitsa-akmolinskoy-oblprokuratury-ugrozhaet-napisat-zhalobu-na-zhurnalista

[3] https://surl.li/pbobkt

[4] https://surli.cc/ssfahw

[5] https://orda.kz/kto-v-kazahstane-zakryvaet-sudy-dlja-zhurnalistov-kogda-gosudarstvennaja-tajna-ne-vpolne-gosudarstvennaja-404850/

[6] https://www.instagram.com/p/DMw-ostt1TZ/?igsh=eXN5aDd3a2VpZTN2

[7] https://azh.kz/ru/news/view/118043

[8]https://www.facebook.com/YermekNarymbai/posts/pfbid02ktkJChq3RTKtv318GU7uQ9z1ipTe5yCHF1K2tjrsZpEcFqSVhTk8UPC6UJwdVRfGl

[9] https://exclusive.kz/za-otkrytie-nezavisimoj-ot-moskvy-pravoslavnoj-cerkvi-vystupili-v-kazahstane/

[10] https://www.tiktok.com/@user1528320332725/video/7534243468219108613?_r=1&_t=ZM-8yfoqhMvwCm

[11] http://www.lada.kz/aktau_news/incidents/141713-eto-podstava-selchane-v-mangistau-trebuiut-proverki-prokuratury-posle-obyska-chastnogo-doma.html

[12] https://www.facebook.com/groups/ActivistsNotExtremists/posts/4242946159357968/