Kazakhstan: Families Struggle to Enjoy Basic Rights
Expand Social Protection; Reform ‘Targeted Social Assistance’ Program
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.
Expand Social Protection; Reform ‘Targeted Social Assistance’ Program
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
Investigate Torture Claims; Hold Officers Responsible to Account
Human rights situation in Kazakhstan
Many people who need help do not qualify because of rigid eligibility criteria.
Diaspora Karakalpaks Linked to Autonomous Uzbek Region
Expand Social Protection; Reform ‘Targeted Social Assistance’ Program
Civil society groups call to establish a fully independent investigation