Kazakhstan's Kurultai reshapes governance through constitutional reforms
A recent meeting at Maqsut Narikbayev University brought together academics, lawmakers, and civic leaders to discuss Kazakhstan's evolving constitutional reforms. The event highlighted the growing influence of the Kurultai, a consultative body introduced in 2022 to bridge public opinion and government policy.
The university's rector, Lazzat Kemerbekovna, opened the session by stressing the importance of the new Constitution. She outlined its goals: reinforcing citizens' rights, improving social justice, and ensuring long-term development.
Zabit Kalikyzy, a deputy from Astana's maslikhat, spoke about the Kurultai's strengths as a people's assembly. He described it as a platform for open dialogue, where public concerns reach decision-makers. Originally symbolic, the Kurultai now plays a formal role in policy, such as backing the 2024 domestic violence law and shaping the 2025 youth employment plan.
Elia Elkenayzy, a professor at the university, focused on legal changes in the draft Constitution. He pointed to stronger protections for citizens and a clearer emphasis on the rule of law. Gulzhamal Zaparova, rector of Turan Astana University, added that universities must help explain these reforms to the public. She linked education to civic engagement, arguing that informed citizens are key to the Constitution's success.
Since its launch by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the Kurultai has moved beyond discussion to action. In 2023, it pushed for anti-corruption laws and proposed electoral reforms ahead of the 2025 parliamentary vote. These steps show its shift from a symbolic forum to an active force in governance.
The meeting underscored the Kurultai's expanding role in Kazakhstan's legal and political landscape. With its input now shaping laws and policies, the body is set to remain central to the country's reform agenda. The new Constitution, once adopted, will reflect these collaborative efforts to strengthen rights and governance.
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