What the Kazakhstan People’s Council Is
The Kazakhstan People’s Council is the highest constitutional consultative body representing the interests of the people. It has 126 members, with 42 drawn from each of three groups – ethnocultural associations, public and other non-profit organisations, and maslikhats and public councils. It may issue recommendations, introduce bills in the Kurultai, and initiate a nationwide vote.
Status and purpose
The Kazakhstan People’s Council is the highest constitutional consultative body representing the interests of the people. It participates in shaping and implementing public policy through national dialogue, public consultation, and recommendations.
Membership
The law establishes 126 members in three equal groups:
- 42 from ethnocultural associations;
- 42 from public associations and other non-profit organisations;
- 42 from maslikhats and public councils of the capital, regions, and cities of national significance.
The Secretariat prepares membership proposals, and the President approves the composition. Members serve four-year terms.
Powers
The Council may:
- prepare proposals and recommendations on domestic policy;
- introduce bills in the Kurultai;
- initiate the calling of a republican referendum;
- hold public forums, consultations, and hearings;
- exercise public oversight in forms permitted by law.
Recommendations sent to public authorities and officials must be considered, but they do not themselves replace legislation or a decision by the competent authority.
How it works
The Session is the highest governing body. An ordinary session is convened as necessary, but at least once a year. Its date, venue, and agenda must be announced in the media at least 30 days in advance. The structure also includes the Toralqa (Presidium), and may include committees, commissions, and working groups.
Key facts
- 126 members: 42 representatives from each of three groups
- The President approves the composition; members serve four-year terms
- The Council has legislative initiative and may initiate a referendum
- An ordinary session is held at least once a year
- Recommendations sent to public authorities must be considered
Public positions and documents
An editorial selection showing how the topic developed and where it stands now.
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«Президент отметил, что Халық Кеңесі – это уникальная диалоговая площадка, которая будет выполнять важную роль в построении Справедливого Казахстана.»
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«Сейчас мы вступаем в новый этап политической модернизации. Среди главных реформ – создание однопалатного Парламента и Халық Кеңесі, а также введение поста Вице-президента. Высшим приоритетом нации провозглашаются права и свободы человека, а такие ценности, как единство, межэтническое и межконфессиональное согласие составляют основу нашей государственности.»
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«Конституция вступит в силу с 1 июля. В августе состоятся выборы в однопалатный Курултай, а в сентябре будет сформирован Қазақстан Халық Кеңесі. Таким образом, мы вступаем в период больших изменений.»
Basis for this explainer
Constitutional provisions and primary sources supporting this explanation.
Constitutional provisions
Primary sources
Open sources the editorial team used to verify this explainer. Checked 16 July 2026.
Related articles
Quick links to the constitutional articles behind this explainer.