The 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is a unique
opportunity for us to come together and reflect on the progress that has been made on
human rights in recent history. As well as looking back at our collective history, we
should also examine the responsibilities that we have as individual countries, and take
stock of how well we have performed as a global community of states — writes Elvira Azimova, Chairwoman of the Constitutional Court of Kazakhstan

Since Kazakhstan gained its independence in 1991, the principles outlined in the
Universal Declaration have been fundamental to the founding principles of our
statehood. While these values are embedded in our national culture and our
constitution and laws, like any other country, we recognize the need to continually
adjust, and to strengthen our human rights protections as we evolve as a nation.
With this in mind, and in the spirit of reflection precipitated by this momentous global
milestone, it is important to assess and recognize the progress made by Kazakhstan
on human rights in the recent past.

In particular, we should examine the Decree and Action Plan on Human Rights and
the Rule of Law signed by President Tokayev. This action plan is another important
contribution towards the further development of Kazakhstan’s democracy and
strengthening the rule of law. It specifically is aimed at protecting individual safety
and liberties – centered around several crucial areas.

President Tokayev’s human rights agenda has prioritized expanding the space for
public participation in Kazakhstan’s democracy – as proven by his landmark reforms
on party registration, which have opened up political space and competition in our
democracy, and strengthened the role of our institutions as checks and balances in the
system of government.

The decree will further advance these aims by bringing our conduct of peaceful
assemblies in line with globally accepted standards and best practices.
It is vital to strike the right balance between protecting public safety and deterring
criminal activities, while also maintaining ample space for both protest and peaceful
demonstration. As such, we are seeking to incorporate lessons from law enforcement
bodies and legislatures across the world – through partnership with the UN and OSCE
institutions – and promoting close collaboration between different national, regional,
and local agencies, as well as institutions of civil society.

Taken together, these measures will bring about meaningful changes in eradicating
torture as a systemic issue, safeguarding human rights, building public trust in law
enforcement agencies, and gaining society’s support in addressing challenges within
the criminal justice system. These measures will even further align national
legislation, mechanisms and procedures established to protect human rights with
Kazakhstan’s international commitments that are enshrined in the Universal
Declaration of Human Rights.

These are critical, and ambitious plans. They will take time to be implemented fully.
Yet the political will is resolute, and we are confident that significant progress will be
made.

Looking to the future, there are many more challenges for us all to contend with as an
international community. Kazakhstan, on its part, is steadfast in its commitment to
following the guidance set out 75 years ago, keeping the principles of the Declaration
“constantly in mind” in all we do.

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