The specialized legislation regulating freedom of speech, expression of opinions, and mass media in Kazakhstan is outdated and does not align with modern challenges. Moreover, the media sector and civil society lack sufficient knowledge about the norms concerning the media and freedom of speech. This conclusion was drawn by the authors of the research.
Under the “Kazakhstan Uncensored” project funded by the European Union, a study was conducted on access to information and freedom of expression. Its goal was to analyze the current legislation and provisions in the field of digital rights and freedom of expression, compare existing findings, and supplement them with new ideas from key stakeholders in the private, public, and third sectors.
The research consists of a legal review of the existing legislation and a sociological section with the results of an online survey and in-depth interviews with experts.
According to experts, the current national legislation regarding freedom of speech does not meet modern challenges and interests, especially concerning media activities and social media platforms.
Additionally, the level of awareness within the media community and civil sector regarding legislation related to the media and freedom of speech is insufficient for the professional community.
The research authors also add that international standards complicate the application of media-related laws, limiting freedom of speech in the country.
The study notes that the new law in Kazakhstan on mass media and the information doctrine may lead to restrictions on freedom of speech, increased censorship, and further control over the media. The authors also highlight that despite its official prohibition, censorship in Kazakhstan continues to exist, especially in state-owned media. Unfounded persecutions and arrests of journalists also create an atmosphere of self-censorship.
Experts observe that women dominate fields related to journalism, civic activism, and human rights protection. However, they suggest this might be due to low wages and insufficient prestige associated with these professions. Thus, the predominance of women in these fields does not guarantee the absence of sexism in the professional environment.
As per the online survey results, the topic of digital rights in Kazakhstan is still evolving, and the digital rights themselves are not fully ensured. This is due to limitations on freedom of speech and access to information, as well as various restrictions on services provided by internet providers.
Among the recommendations, the authors propose raising awareness among professionals about media regulation and freedom of expression, promoting gender parity, combating sexism, and overcoming societal stereotypes through educational workshops and forums.
The research will be beneficial for journalists, activists, human rights defenders, media workers, researchers, representatives of governmental bodies, international organizations, and anyone interested or working in the field of digital rights and freedom of expression in Kazakhstan.
The publication is available in Kazakh, Russian, and English languages.
Download the legal review KZ/RUS/ENG
Download the sociological part of the research KZ/RUS/ENG
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This publication was funded by the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of PF “Wings of Liberty” and IWPR and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.