In a move that has sparked significant international concern, Kazakhstan’s Parliament has endorsed a legislative proposal aimed at restricting discussions regarding LGBTIQ+ issues. This amendment to the law on “Archival Matters” mandates the labeling of materials featuring LGBTIQ+ topics. More strikingly, it criminalizes the promotion of “non-traditional sexual orientation,” with repeated offenses punishable by fines or up to 10 days of administrative detention. The measure now awaits review by the Senate and requires the president’s signature to be enacted. Further insights into the legislative development can be found through a detailed report here.
Human rights organizations have been vocal in their opposition. Seven international groups, including Human Rights Watch (HRW) and the Eurasian Coalition on Health, Rights, Gender and Sexual Diversity (ECOM), have called on the Kazakhstani Parliament to abandon the bill. They argue that the proposal exacerbates the vulnerability of the LGBTIQ+ community and contravenes Kazakhstan’s international commitments. Articles 19 and 26 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which safeguard freedom of expression and non-discrimination, are reportedly at risk.
Supporters within the Kazakhstani government see the amendments differently. Yelnur Beisenbayev, leader of the ruling Amanat Party, lauded the bill, claiming it serves to protect children’s mental health and safety. His colleague, Nikita Shatalov, cited Article 17 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, suggesting that states are obligated to shield children from harmful information. However, ECOM counters this assertion, emphasizing that the amendments might infringe on the right to education and health by limiting adolescents’ access to accurate information about sexual orientation and gender identity.
This legislative push from Kazakhstan comes despite international calls to revise national policies. Earlier this year, recommendations from the UN Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review encouraged Kazakhstan to eliminate discriminatory practices and bolster freedom of expression for the LGBTIQ+ community.