Kazakhstan: No Justice for January Protest Victims
Set Independent Investigation with International Experts

Political reforms promised by Kazakhstan’s President Kasym-Jomart Tokaev since he came to power in 2019 have not led to meaningful improvements in the country’s poor human rights record. Free speech is suppressed and a new peaceful assemblies law, touted by authorities as progressive reform, continues to restrict the right to peaceful protest. Kazakh authorities have used politically motivated prosecutions to silence government critics, including on the vague and overbroad charge of “inciting discord,” and banned political opposition groups as “extremist.” Long-promised amendments to the Trade Union Law were adopted in May 2020, but independent trade unions face harassment and interference. Impunity for torture and ill-treatment persists. Kazakhstan has ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, but children with disabilities are largely denied a quality, inclusive education.
Set Independent Investigation with International Experts
End Abuses, Interference with Lawyers; Investigate Torture Allegations
Partners Should Press for Investigation into Abusive Response to Protests, Unrest
Over 130 Targeted for Alleged Membership in Groups Deemed ‘Extremist’
Civil society groups call to establish a fully independent investigation
Drop Unfounded Charges; Free Party Leader; Ensure Justice for Rights Abuses
Accountability for Deaths in Tajikistan, Kazakhstan Vital
Allow time to consult; Improve Role of Rights Commissioner, Constitutional Court
Set Independent Investigation with International Experts
Charges Contradict Government’s Reform Claims
International Partners Should Press for Hybrid Investigation
Government Permitted International Women’s Day Rally, But Women Need More
Human Rights Watch argues that the government’s responses to January events fall short.