Journalism and Censorship in Kazakhstan: Between Freedom of Speech and State Control

Journalism in Kazakhstan exists in a complex environment. On the one hand, the country’s Constitution guarantees freedom of speech, but on the other, there are significant restrictions due to government regulations, political circumstances, and pressure on independent media. In recent years, Kazakhstan has seen increased control over the media, raising concerns among international human rights organizations.

Historical Context and Legal Framework

After gaining independence in 1991, Kazakhstan inherited the Soviet tradition of state-controlled press, where the government regulated all information flows. However, during the 1990s and 2000s, independent publications such as Respublika, Vremya, and Novaya Gazeta Kazakhstan emerged, striving to cover pressing political and social issues.

On paper, freedom of speech in Kazakhstan is protected by the Constitution and media-related laws. However, these same laws are often used to restrict journalistic investigations and criticism of the government. For example, the Law on Mass Media grants the state broad powers to suspend or shut down media outlets for reasons such as “spreading knowingly false information” or “inciting social discord.”

Forms of Censorship and Pressure on Journalists

1. Laws Against “Fake News” and Extremism

One of the key tools of control is the legislation aimed at combating disinformation and extremism. In 2020, Kazakhstan passed a law against the “deliberate dissemination of false information,” allowing authorities to prosecute journalists and bloggers for publishing unverified data. In practice, this law is often used against independent journalists covering corruption and protest movements.

2. Blocking and Shutting Down Media Outlets

Kazakh authorities frequently use administrative measures to shut down dissenting media. For instance, the independent outlet Respublika was closed in 2012 after publishing reports on government corruption. Additionally, the country has periodically blocked websites of opposition media and human rights organizations, including Radio Azattyq (Kazakhstan’s service of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty) and Uralskaya Nedelya.

3. Pressure on Journalists

Journalists in Kazakhstan face threats, criminal charges, and physical attacks. Following the January 2022 protests, several journalists were detained and accused of supporting unrest. There have also been reports of attacks on reporters investigating corruption. In 2023, investigative journalists from KazTAG reported surveillance and threats against them.

4. Self-Censorship

Due to the risk of prosecution, many journalists practice self-censorship, avoiding criticism of the government, security forces, and high-ranking officials. State-controlled media primarily publish content aligned with official government positions.

The Role of International Organizations and the Future of Journalism in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is frequently criticized by international organizations such as Reporters Without Borders, Amnesty International, and Human Rights Watch. The country ranks poorly in the global press freedom index, lagging behind even some other Central Asian nations.

Despite these challenges, independent journalism in Kazakhstan continues to evolve, with journalists increasingly using alternative formats such as YouTube and Telegram channels, which are less susceptible to traditional censorship. However, authorities are attempting to regulate these platforms by introducing laws targeting bloggers and online media.

Conclusion

Journalism in Kazakhstan operates under difficult conditions, facing strict government regulation and pressure. However, public demand for independent information is growing, and digital platforms provide new opportunities for alternative viewpoints. The key question remains: will Kazakhstan’s media landscape move towards greater freedom, or will state control only intensify?