Kazakhstan Reveals Bold Constitutional Overhaul Prioritizing Human Rights
Kazakhstan has unveiled a draft of its new Constitution, marking the most extensive legal reform in decades. The updated document introduces sweeping changes to 84 percent of its text, with a strong emphasis on human rights and modern state principles. State Counselor Erlan Karin presented the draft to the Constitutional Reform Commission, highlighting its significance for the nation's future.
The revised Constitution begins with a news Preamble that sets unity, interethnic harmony, and interfaith understanding as the core of Kazakh statehood. For the first time, it also traces the historical and civilisational roots of the country, offering a clearer narrative of its development.
Human rights and freedoms now take centre stage, declared as the state's highest priority. The document strengthens legal protections, introducing new mechanisms to safeguard citizens—particularly in the digital sphere. Principles like justice, law and order, and environmental responsibility have been formally enshrined, reflecting evolving societal values.
Education, science, culture, and innovation are established as key pillars of national progress. The Constitution also defines marriage as a voluntary and equal union between a man and a woman. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's programmatic theses shaped the Preamble, aligning the reforms with his vision for the country.
The draft Constitution represents a major shift in Kazakhstan's legal framework, with nearly all its text revised. Its focus on human rights, digital protections, and national unity sets a new direction for governance. The reforms will now undergo further review before potential adoption.
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