Today, ECOM expresses deep concern and draws attention to the potentially negative consequences following the decision of the Senate of the Republic of Kazakhstan to adopt amendments aimed at so-called “LGBT propaganda.” These amendments were included in the draft law on amendments to certain legislative acts concerning archival matters and countering illegal content, and were approved in an expedited procedure, without full public and expert discussion.
ECOM has previously expressed our position on these initiatives, highlighting their discriminatory nature and non-compliance with Kazakhstan’s international human rights obligations. However, the adopted provisions now reach a legally significant stage, increasing the risks of arbitrary enforcement, restrictions on freedom of expression, and self-censorship, without achieving the stated objectives of protecting children and public morals.
ECOM calls on the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan to exercise his constitutional right and veto this draft law, emphasizing the need to develop clear, proportionate, and non-discriminatory norms with the participation of civil society and independent experts.
