What changed after the new Constitution was adopted?

On 15 March 2026, citizens of Kazakhstan approved the new Constitution in a referendum. The document takes effect upon official publication of results. A transition period begins – adapting laws and launching new institutions.

After the Referendum 1 min read 📄
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Key Points

The new Constitution of Kazakhstan was adopted by national referendum on 15 March 2026. This is the most extensive revision of the Basic Law in the country's independent history – 49 of 98 existing articles were amended, and the total number of articles grew to 147.

What Takes Effect Immediately

  • The Constitution applies from the moment results are published in Kazakhstanskaya Pravda and Egemen Qazaqstan
  • The 1995 Constitution (with amendments) ceases to apply
  • All new citizens' rights take effect immediately

What Requires a Transition Period

  • Kurultai – a unicameral parliament in a new format, replacing the bicameral system (Mazhilis + Senate). Formation during 2026–2027
  • Vice President – a new position, appointed by the President
  • Constitutional laws – up to 7 laws must be reworked or re-adopted
  • Digital rights – subordinate legislation on personal data protection will be needed

Facts

  • 147 articles in the new Constitution (was 98)
  • 9+ sections (norms on digital rights and new institutions added)
  • Pre-court detention reduced from 72 to 48 hours
  • Deprivation of citizenship – now possible by court decision for terrorism
Related questions

When do the new constitutional laws take effect?

The Constitution itself takes effect immediately after results are published. But launching the Kurultai, the Vice President's office, and other innovations requires constitutional laws – their adoption is scheduled for 2026–2027.

How will the Kurultai be formed?

The Kurultai is a unicameral parliament of 145 deputies in a new format. It replaces the bicameral system (Mazhilis + Senate). The formation procedure will be defined by a separate constitutional law.

When will the Vice President appear and what is the role?

The Vice President's office is established by the new Constitution. Appointed by the President, with a minimum age of 60. The main role is to ensure continuity of power if the President's term ends.

How will digital rights work in practice?

The new Constitution for the first time enshrines personal data protection and the right to submit electronic appeals to state bodies. Implementation will require subordinate legislation – expected in 2026–2027.