Question: Full Text of the New Constitution

Full Text of the New Constitution Here you can access the full text of the new Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan online in Kazakh and Russian, along with official publications and comparative materials. ## Official Text of the Constitution

The Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan, adopted at the national referendum on March 15, 2026.

**Available versions and materials:**

- [2026 Constitution in Kazakh](/full-text?lang=kk) – online reading version with navigation
- [2026 Constitution in Russian](/full-text?lang=ru) – Russian online version
- [Compare with the 1995 Constitution](/compare?lang=en) – key differences by topic
- [Official publication on Gov.kz](https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-minsk/documents/details/967814?lang=ru) – external official source

## Document Structure

The Constitution consists of a **preamble** and **11 sections**:

1. **General Provisions** – form of government, territory, state symbols, language
2. **The Individual and Citizen** – rights, freedoms, obligations
3. **The President** – status, powers, election procedure
4. **The Kurultai** – composition, powers, formation procedure
5. **The Government** – structure, functions
6. **The Constitutional Court** – status, powers
7. **Courts and Justice** – how the judicial system is organized
8. **Local Government** – akimats and maslikhats
9. **Public Finance** – core rules of public finance
10. **Supremacy of the Constitution** – how the Basic Law prevails over other acts
11. **Transitional Provisions** – entry into force and transition to the new system

## How to Read the Constitution

**For a quick overview:**

- Read the **preamble** – it outlines the state's core values
- Study **Section 2 (The Individual and Citizen)** – your rights and freedoms
- Review **Sections 3–5** – how power is structured

**For in-depth study:**

- Use the **comparison table** – it shows changes relative to the current Constitution
- Pay attention to **commentaries** – they explain the meaning of specific norms

## Official Sources

- **Official referendum website:** referendum.gov.kz
- **Constitutional Court of RK:** ksrk.gov.kz
- **Presidential Administration of RK:** akorda.kz - Full text available online in Kazakh and Russian
- 11 sections: from constitutional fundamentals to transitional provisions
- Comparison table – changes relative to the current Constitution
- Explanatory materials – for understanding the reform logic

About the Constitution

full-text faq about About the Constitution

Canonical Constitution.my explainer with card-level checked official sources.

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Full Constitutional Text

Official publication of the 2026 Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan


Question: How the New Constitution Was Developed

How the New Constitution Was Developed The new Constitution was created openly, with the participation of experts, citizens, and representatives of all regions. The process took six months – from September 2025 to February 2026 – and included collecting proposals, expert review, public discussions, and coordination. ## Development Timeline

**Stage 1: Launching the Process (September 2025)**

Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev outlined the need for constitutional reform in his Address to the Nation of Kazakhstan. The key focus – transition to a unicameral parliament and strengthening mechanisms of popular participation.

**Stage 2: Forming the Working Group (October 2025)**

An interdepartmental Working Group on parliamentary reform was created. Its members included:

- Constitutional lawyers
- Deputies of the current Parliament (all parties)
- Business community representatives
- Human rights advocates and NGO activists
- Public administration experts
- Regional representatives

**Stage 3: Collecting Citizen Proposals (October 2025 – January 2026)**

Online platforms for proposals were launched:

- **e-Otinish** – official appeals portal
- **eGov** – state services portal

Any citizen could submit their proposal. **Over 2,000 proposals** were received. Each was reviewed by the working group.

**Stage 4: Constitutional Commission Work (January–February 2026)**

The Constitutional Commission (130+ members) was formed under the chairmanship of **Elvira Azimova** (Chair of the Constitutional Court).

All commission sessions were held in an **open format with online broadcast**. Topics discussed:

- Power structure
- Checks and balances mechanisms
- Citizens' rights (including digital)
- Electoral system
- Popular participation institutions

**Stage 5: Publication and Final Discussion (February 2026)**

The new Constitution was published for public review. Events held:

- Expert roundtables
- Regional discussions
- Media briefings

**Stage 6: Referendum (March 15, 2026)**

Citizens made the decision on March 15, 2026: voting took place on March 15, 2026.

## Who Participated in Development

**Constitutional Commission members (130+):**

- **Lawyers** – constitutionalists, judges, prosecutors
- **Parliamentarians** – deputies from all factions (Amanat, Auyl, QHP, Respublika, OSDP)
- **Business** – representatives of the National Chamber of Entrepreneurs "Atameken"
- **Civil society** – NGOs, human rights advocates, activists
- **Regions** – representatives of all oblasts and cities of republican significance
- **Academia** – scholars, legal researchers
- **Media** – journalists, editors
- **Culture** – figures from culture and arts

**Gender balance:** maintained (at least 30% women).

**Regional balance:** all regions of Kazakhstan represented.

## Process Transparency

1. **All sessions broadcast live** – on official portals and YouTube
2. **Materials published** – minutes, transcripts, proposals (anonymized)
3. **Open communication channel** – citizens could ask questions via eGov
4. **Media coverage** – daily briefings, interviews with commission members - Six months of work – September 2025 to February 2026
- 130+ experts – lawyers, deputies, business, NGOs, regions
- 2,000+ citizen proposals – via e-Otinish and eGov
- All sessions open – live broadcasts, access to materials

About the Constitution

how-developed faq about About the Constitution

Popular Sovereignty

Citizen Participation

Amendments by Referendum

Constitutional Court Opinion

Official constitutional documents


Question: How to Read the Constitution

How to Read the Constitution It's better to read the Constitution in blocks rather than sequentially: first rights and freedoms, then the power structure and amendment procedure. It's easier to approach the Constitution not as a "novel from first to last page" but as a set of interconnected blocks.

A practical reading order might be:

1. The section on human rights and freedoms – to understand what exactly is protected.
2. The section on the structure of power – who is responsible for what.
3. The section on local self-government and citizen participation.
4. The section on the procedure for amending the Constitution.

## Tips for First-Time Readers

- **Don't be intimidated by official terminology** – most terms are straightforward: "legislative = law-making," "executive = implementing."
- **Read with highlights** – mark articles that matter to you.
- **Compare** – the "before/after" table shows what's changing.

## Where to Read

- **constitution.my** – current text and a structured comparison
- **constitution.my** – [Constitution text](/full-text?lang=en) and [the verified Russian text of the 1995 Constitution](/constitution-1995?lang=ru)
- **election.gov.kz** – Central Election Commission website
- **"Egemen Qazaqstan" newspaper** – published text - Read in blocks – not everything at once
- Comparison table – the best tool to see changes
- Official referendum results – election.gov.kz

About the Constitution

constitution-how-to-read-simple faq about About the Constitution

Direct Effect and Supremacy

Rights Protection

President

Kurultai

Local Government

Constitutional Amendments

Official constitutional documents


Question: Why We Are Updating the Constitution

Why We Are Updating the Constitution The 1995 Constitution laid the foundations of an independent state. But over 30 years, the economy, technology, public expectations, and governance institutions have changed. Updating the Constitution is not abandoning previous values but aligning the legal system with the reality of 2026. ## What Changed in 30 Years

**1. Digital Reality**

In 1995, the internet was rare. Today, the digital space is part of everyday life. New challenges have emerged:

- Personal data protection
- Privacy of digital communications
- Statutory routes to request removal of information in defined cases
- Cybersecurity

The previous Constitution did not regulate these issues – they simply did not exist.

**2. Balance of Powers**

The experience of a bicameral parliament showed that coordination between two chambers increased the time of the legislative process. The transition to the unicameral Kurultai:

- Optimizes the legislative process while maintaining representation
- Strengthens personal accountability of deputies (all decisions are transparent and personalized)
- Expands parliamentary powers (from 13 to 23 constitutional functions)

**3. Citizen Participation**

Public demand for involvement has grown. People want not just to "vote once every 5 years" but to participate in discussing laws, oversee the government, and influence decisions. The new Constitution institutionalizes these mechanisms:

- Kazakhstan People's Council (Khalyq Keñesi) – a permanent platform for dialogue
- The right to individual and collective appeals; a separate petition process is governed by the Administrative Procedural Code
- Transparent public oversight procedures

**4. Legal Guarantees**

Over 30 years, international human rights standards have evolved. The new Constitution establishes:

- **Rights explanation upon detention** – authorities must explain the grounds for restricting liberty and the person’s rights
- Reduction of detention without court from **72 to 48 hours**
- Presumption of innocence as a **general constitutional principle** (not just criminal)
- Strengthened protection of honor and dignity

## What Does NOT Change

It's important to understand: this is not a "new Constitution from scratch." This is an **update of the existing one**. Preserved:

- **Presidential form of government** – the President remains the head of state
- **Unitary state** – Kazakhstan is a single state, not a federation
- **Popular sovereignty** – citizens are the source of power
- **Fundamental rights and freedoms** – freedom of speech, assembly, religion, property

## Why Now

Constitutional reform is the result of a systematic process:

- **September 2025:** The Head of State announced the need for parliamentary reform in his Address
- **October 2025:** Working Group created (130+ experts: lawyers, business, NGOs, parliamentary parties)
- **October–February:** Open discussion via e-Otinish and eGov portals (2,000+ proposals)
- **February 2026:** Constitutional Commission completed work, text published
- **March 2026:** The referendum took place on March 15, 2026 – 87.15% voted in favour.

→ [Compare constitutions: 1995 vs 2026](/compare?lang=en) · [Full text of the Constitution](/full-text?lang=en) - 30 years = new reality: digitalization, new rights, changed institutions
- Not rewriting but updating: core values preserved
- Open process: 2,000+ citizen proposals, 130+ experts, public sessions
- The decision is yours: the referendum took place on March 15, 2026

About the Constitution

why-update faq about About the Constitution

Applicable Law

Digital Rights

President

Vice President

Kurultai

People's Council

Constitutional Court

Entry into Force

Transition to New Institutions

Alignment of Legislation

Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan of 1995 (official archive publication)

Official constitutional documents


Question: What Types of Laws Exist and How They Relate to Each Other

What Types of Laws Exist and How They Relate to Each Other The hierarchy runs: Constitution → constitutional laws → laws → presidential decrees → government resolutions → ministerial orders. Any lower-ranking act that contradicts a higher-ranking one has no legal force. The Constitution sits at the top. Not all laws are equal. There is a clear hierarchy in Kazakhstan's legal system – and the Constitution stands at its peak.

## Hierarchy of legal acts

| Level | What it is | Who adopts it |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Constitution | The fundamental law | The people (referendum) |
| 2. Constitutional laws | Laws on matters explicitly named in the Constitution | Kurultai (2/3 majority) |
| 3. Laws | The main body of legislation | Kurultai (simple majority) |
| 4. Presidential decrees | Normative acts of the head of state | President |
| 5. Government resolutions | Acts of the executive | Government |
| 6. Ministerial orders | Departmental acts | Ministers |
| 7. Maslikhat decisions | Local normative acts | Maslikhats |

## The priority rule

If an act at a lower level contradicts one at a higher level, **the higher-ranking act prevails**:

- A ministerial order cannot contradict a law.
- A law cannot contradict a constitutional law.
- Nothing can contradict the Constitution.

## Why this matters in practice

Suppose a local official cites a departmental order and denies you a right guaranteed by the Constitution. That order **has no legal force**. You can:

- challenge it in court;
- report it to the Prosecutor's Office;
- apply to the Constitutional Court if the problem lies with the law itself.

## Constitutional laws – a special tier

Constitutional laws are adopted on matters explicitly listed in the Constitution: on the President, the Kurultai, the courts, and referendums. Their adoption requires a **qualified majority** – at least 2/3 of deputies. They are harder to amend than ordinary laws. - The Constitution is the supreme act, at the top of the hierarchy
- A lower-ranking act that contradicts a higher-ranking one has no legal force
- Constitutional laws require a 2/3 majority in the Kurultai
- The hierarchy is a practical tool for defending your rights

About the Constitution

constitution-levels-of-law faq about About the Constitution

Applicable Law and Constitutional Supremacy

Subjects of Legislative Regulation

Laws and Constitutional Laws

Local Normative Acts


Question: What Is the Constitution

What Is the Constitution The Constitution is the fundamental law of the state that defines the structure of power, citizens' rights, and the basic rules of society. It is not a political program or ideological manifesto but the legal foundation upon which all other laws are built. The Constitution establishes the "rules of the game" for everyone – from the president to ordinary citizens. ## Why We Need a Constitution

The Constitution serves three key functions:

1. **Limits state power.** The Constitution prevents the government from acting arbitrarily – it establishes clear boundaries for every body's authority and mechanisms of checks and balances.

2. **Guarantees citizens' rights.** Fundamental rights – to life, freedom of speech, property, fair trial – are enshrined in the Constitution and protected from changes by ordinary laws.

3. **Establishes rules of interaction between institutions.** Who is elected and how, how laws are adopted, who is responsible for what – all of this is written in the Constitution.

## How the Constitution Differs from Ordinary Laws

The Constitution has **supreme legal force**:

- Any law contradicting the Constitution is invalid.
- The Constitution can only be changed through a referendum – direct voting by citizens.
- The Constitution is reviewed by a separate body – the Constitutional Court.

Ordinary laws elaborate on constitutional norms but cannot override or contradict them.

## The Constitution Is a Living Document

The Constitution is not written once and forever. It evolves with society. The economy changes, new technologies emerge (internet, digital rights), new challenges arise (cybersecurity, data protection) – and the Constitution must respond to these changes.

At the same time, fundamental principles remain stable:

- Popular sovereignty
- Separation of powers
- Human rights guarantees
- Territorial integrity

Updating the Constitution is not "rewriting from scratch" but adjusting institutions to new conditions while preserving fundamental values. - Constitution = rules of the game for all members of society
- Supreme legal force – no law can contradict it
- Changed only through referendum – citizens decide
- Protects rights and limits power simultaneously

About the Constitution

what-is-constitution faq about About the Constitution

State Foundations and Highest Values

Popular Sovereignty and Separation of Powers

Supremacy of the Constitution

Protection of Human Rights


Question: Key Changes in the New Constitution

Key Changes in the New Constitution The new Constitution preserves the foundations of statehood but changes the architecture of power and strengthens citizens' rights. Key changes: transition to a unicameral parliament, introduction of the Vice President, expansion of digital rights, and strengthened mechanisms of popular oversight. ## 1. SYSTEM OF POWER: From Bicameral Parliament to Kurultai

**Before:**

- Parliament = Senate (49 deputies) + Mazhilis (98 deputies)
- Coordination between two chambers

**Now:**

- **Kurultai** – unicameral supreme representative body
- **145 deputies** (instead of 147 in two chambers)
- **Proportional system** at the national level (party lists)
- **Expanded powers:** from 13 to 23 constitutionally enshrined functions

**Why:**

- Optimizing the legislative process (one chamber – one process)
- Personal accountability of every deputy (transparent voting)
- Strengthening parliament's role in checks and balances

## 2. VICE PRESIDENT: A New Institution of Continuity

**What is introduced:**

- The position of **Vice President of the Republic of Kazakhstan**

**How appointed:**

- President appoints with the **consent of Kurultai** (institutional filter)

**Functions:**

- Coordinating government work on the President's behalf
- Participating in Government and Kurultai sessions
- In case of early termination of the President's powers, temporarily serves as acting President until new elections are held within 60 days

## 3. CITIZENS' RIGHTS: Digital Rights and Procedural Guarantees

**a) Digital rights (new block):**

- Right to personal data protection
- Privacy of digital communications (email, messengers)
- Statutory routes to request removal of information in defined cases

**b) Rights upon detention:**

- Detention without court: **72 → 48 hours**
- **Rights explanation upon detention** – authorities must inform a detained person of the grounds and relevant rights
- Mandatory right to a lawyer from the moment of detention

**c) Presumption of innocence:**

- Enshrined as a **general constitutional principle** (not just criminal proceedings)

**d) Peaceful assemblies:**

- Right to peaceful assemblies without weapons is guaranteed

## 4. POPULAR PARTICIPATION: Institutionalizing Dialogue

**Kazakhstan People's Council (Khalyq Keñesi):**

- Consultative-advisory body under the President
- Includes representatives of civil society, NGOs, experts, regions
- Discusses draft laws, development strategies, social issues

**Appeals and petitions:**

- The Constitution preserves the right to individual and collective appeals
- Supported petitions are reviewed by the competent authorities under the Administrative Procedural Code; this is not direct citizen legislative initiative

## 5. WHAT DOES NOT CHANGE

Preserved:

- **President** – head of state, 7-year term, single term, party neutrality
- **Presidential form of government** – President forms the Government
- **Unitary state** – not a federation
- **Popular sovereignty** – citizens are the source of power
- **Fundamental rights** – freedom of speech, assembly, religion, property

## "Before and After" Table

| Item | 1995 Constitution | 2026 Constitution |
|---|---|---|
| Parliament | Senate (49) + Mazhilis (98) | Kurultai (145) |
| Parliamentary powers | 13 functions | 23 functions |
| Vice President | No | Yes (with Kurultai consent) |
| Detention period | 72 hours | 48 hours |
| Digital rights | Not regulated | Data protection, communication privacy |
| People's Council | Informal status | Constitutional status |
| President | 7 years, single term | 7 years, single term (unchanged) |

→ [Full text of the 2026 Constitution](/full-text?lang=en) · [1995 Constitution](/constitution-1995?lang=en) - Kurultai replaces Senate and Mazhilis – optimizing legislative process
- Vice President – continuity + institutional oversight
- Digital rights – data and privacy protection
- 48 hours instead of 72 – strengthened procedural guarantees
- People's Council – permanent dialogue institution

About the Constitution

key-changes faq about About the Constitution

Digital Rights

President

Vice President

Kurultai

People's Council

Constitutional Court

Local Government

Entry into Force

Transitional Provisions


Question: Can Rights and Freedoms Be Limited

Can Rights and Freedoms Be Limited Rights may be limited only by law and only to the extent necessary for the aims in Article 41. Political restrictions are prohibited, and the rights in Articles 12, 14, 16, 17, 20, 22, and 25 may not be limited in any circumstances. ## Core rule

Article 41 permits limits on rights only **by law** and only to the extent necessary to protect the constitutional order, the rights and freedoms of others, national security, public order, public health, and public morality.

This is not permission to limit rights for administrative convenience. In each case, there should be a legal basis, a constitutionally listed aim, and a clear link between the measure and that aim. Restrictions for political motives are expressly prohibited.

## Questions to ask in a concrete case

1. **Who imposed the restriction and under which law?**
2. **Which Article 41 aim does it pursue?**
3. **Is the measure broader than necessary for that aim?**
4. **What is the route and deadline for challenge?**

A law may regulate peaceful assemblies or introduce sanitary measures. But calling a measure “security” does not by itself make it constitutional: its content, necessity, and scope can be challenged.

## Rights that cannot be limited

The Constitution gives an exact list. Rights and freedoms in Articles **12, 14, 16, 17, 20, 22, 25** may not be limited in any circumstances.

These include legal personality and judicial protection, protection of citizens abroad, equality and non-discrimination, the right to life, dignity and freedom from torture, the choice of nationality and use of a native language, and freedom of conscience. Read the relevant article for the precise scope: protection covers its full text, not only a short label.

## How a restriction is reviewed

An ordinary court reviews the legality of a decision or action in a specific case. If a normative act that must be applied infringes constitutional rights, the court must suspend proceedings and refer the act to the Constitutional Court under Article 79. A citizen may also apply to the Constitutional Court when the admissibility conditions in the constitutional law are met. - Article 41 permits limits only by law and for its listed aims
- Restrictions for political motives are prohibited
- Articles 12, 14, 16, 17, 20, 22, 25 cannot be limited in any circumstances
- Judicial and constitutional review are different routes with different requirements and deadlines

Rights

Limits on Rights Restrictions


Question: What Does the 'Direct Effect' of the Constitution Mean

What Does the 'Direct Effect' of the Constitution Mean Direct effect allows a person to invoke a constitutional provision, but it does not dispense with evidence, time limits, procedure or requirements of special legislation. In a concrete dispute, read the constitutional text with the applicable procedure. ## What direct effect means

A constitutional provision may be cited directly in a claim, complaint or legal argument. That citation does not replace proof of the facts, compliance with time limits, or the procedure and requirements set by special legislation.

## A practical way to use it

1. Identify the constitutional guarantee relevant to the situation.
2. Preserve decisions, correspondence, records and dates that support the facts.
3. Check the applicable procedure and any requirements in special legislation.
4. Connect the specific constitutional article to the facts in the application or complaint.

A constitutional provision can be an important argument in matters involving expression, privacy or judicial protection. The outcome still depends on the evidence, the applicable law and the decision of the competent body.

## Constitutional review

The route to the Constitutional Court and admissibility requirements are established by law. Constitutional review does not replace an ordinary dispute, appeal or other procedural route. For a concrete legal problem, read the official acts and seek qualified advice. - Direct effect permits a direct reference to a constitutional provision
- Evidence, time limits and procedural requirements still apply
- The applicable special law and competent body matter in each case
- Constitutional review does not replace ordinary remedies

Rights

constitution-direct-effect faq rights Rights

Direct Effect of the Constitution

Judicial Protection of Rights

Constitutional Court

Judicial Referral to the Constitutional Court


Question: What Duties Citizens Have Under the Constitution

What Duties Citizens Have Under the Constitution The Constitution establishes both rights and citizens’ duties. Duties are not the price of having rights: their scope, performance and consequences are determined by the Constitution and special laws. ## Rights and duties coexist

The Constitution protects human rights and also establishes citizens’ duties. Failure to perform one duty does not remove another constitutional right: any consequence must be assessed separately under the law and the applicable procedure.

## Core duties

- observe the Constitution and laws;
- pay taxes and other charges established by law;
- defend the Republic as provided by law;
- care for children and incapacitated parents;
- protect nature and respect the rights and freedoms of others.

## What matters in a concrete case

Tax obligations, military service, maintenance, environmental rules and other duties are governed by different laws. The legal consequence depends on the alleged conduct, evidence, time limit and procedure.

Start with the constitutional provision, then read the relevant law and official procedure. A short explainer alone is not enough to determine liability. - The Constitution names citizens’ duties alongside rights
- Consequences of non-compliance depend on a special law and procedure
- One duty is not a condition for the existence of another constitutional right
- Check the legal basis, time limit and competent authority in a concrete case

Rights

Duties

Duties

Duties

Duties

Duties


Question: What Digital Rights Mean in the New Constitution

What Digital Rights Mean in the New Constitution The 2026 Constitution expressly protects personal data and the secrecy of communications transmitted using digital technologies. The legal grounds for processing data, accessing communications, and restricting information remain defined by law; biometric data are regulated under personal-data legislation rather than named separately in the Constitution. ## Why digital rights matter

Earlier constitutional models were written before the digital age became central to everyday life. Today, a large part of human activity takes place online:

- communication
- banking and payments
- public services
- social networks
- storage and processing of personal data

That is why constitutional protection must extend into the digital sphere.

## Main digital rights

The new constitutional approach strengthens guarantees related to:

- protection of personal data
- privacy of digital communications such as email and messengers
- protection against unlawful collection, processing, storage, and use of personal data
- legal protection for communications transmitted using digital technologies

## What this means in practice

The state and private entities should not be able to:

- collect personal data without limits
- distribute data freely without lawful grounds
- interfere unlawfully with private communications
- carry out digital surveillance without constitutional and legal justification

## What risks these rights address

Digital rights respond to modern threats such as:

- data leaks
- unlawful access to accounts and messages
- profiling and mass data analysis
- permanent circulation of outdated information harmful to reputation

## Why constitutional status matters

When digital rights are protected only by weak regulations, they can be bypassed more easily. Once elevated to constitutional level, they become harder to ignore and easier to defend legally. - The Constitution expressly protects personal data and communications transmitted using digital technologies
- Biometric data are regulated by personal-data law but are not named separately in the Constitution
- They respond to data leaks, profiling, and digital surveillance risks
- Constitutional recognition gives these rights stronger legal protection

Rights

Digital Rights

Freedom of Information


Question: How Rights Are Limited During Emergency and Wartime

How Rights Are Limited During Emergency and Wartime A state of emergency or martial law may involve temporary limits, but their legal basis, scope and duration must follow the Constitution and special law. Each measure should be assessed against the specific regime and act. ## General principle

A state of emergency or wartime allows the state to adopt additional security measures. But it does not mean that constitutional order disappears or that the authorities gain unlimited power.

## What may be restricted

Depending on the situation, temporary restrictions may affect:

- freedom of movement
- rules for public assemblies
- information-security measures
- special public-safety regimes

## What conditions must still be met

Any emergency restriction must:

- be based on law
- be temporary
- be connected to a real and specific threat
- be publicly announced
- remain open to judicial and constitutional oversight

## What still cannot be violated

Even in exceptional situations, certain fundamental guarantees must remain protected, especially:

- human dignity
- the prohibition of torture
- protection from unlawful violence
- core legality guarantees

## Why this is important

Emergency regimes always create a risk of overreach. That is why the Constitution must continue to function as a limit even in extraordinary times.

## What a citizen can do

If a restriction appears unlawful, excessive, or discriminatory, a person may:
- challenge it in court
- file a complaint with prosecutorial bodies
- appeal to the Ombudsman
- seek constitutional review where applicable - Emergency does not place the state outside the Constitution
- Restrictions must remain legal, temporary, public, and reviewable
- Fundamental guarantees still matter even in exceptional regimes
- Unlawful or discriminatory restrictions can be challenged

Rights

rights-emergency-regimes faq rights Rights

Presidential Powers During States of Emergency and Martial Law


Question: Basic Rights and Freedoms in the Constitution

The Constitution guarantees core personal, political, social, and digital rights. Below is what the 2026 Constitution now protects directly, which guarantees became stronger, and where to go if a right is violated.

Basic Rights and Freedoms in the Constitution The Constitution establishes personal, political, social, economic and digital rights. This is a concise map of the core provisions; their exercise, limits and remedies are further defined by law and procedure. ## Core rights

The Constitution protects a broad set of fundamental rights and freedoms. Among the most important are:

- the right to life
- personal liberty
- protection of honor and dignity
- privacy and inviolability of private life
- freedom of speech and expression
- freedom of peaceful assembly
- freedom of conscience and religion
- the right to property
- the right to work and social protection
- the right to education
- the right to judicial protection

## What constitutional rights mean

Constitutional rights set limits and guidance for public authorities. In a concrete case, their scope, exercise and available remedy also depend on the applicable law and procedure.

When an authority restricts a right, it should identify the legal basis, purpose and procedure. Keep the decision, notice and supporting documents to assess or challenge the measure.

## What the new Constitution strengthens

The 2026 model places stronger emphasis on several areas:

- digital rights, including personal data and communication privacy
- procedural guarantees during detention and investigation
- stronger protection of human dignity
- constitutional and judicial protection mechanisms, each with its own conditions

## Rights of everyone and rights of citizens

Some rights belong to **every person**:
- the right to life
- dignity
- protection from torture
- access to justice

Other rights belong specifically to **citizens**:
- voting rights
- participation in state governance
- certain political rights tied to citizenship

## Why this matters

Fundamental rights are an important safeguard in an individual’s relationship with the state. For a practical question, read the constitutional text together with the relevant law, documents and procedure. - The Constitution establishes rights relating to life, liberty, dignity, expression, property and judicial protection
- Rights can be invoked, but their exercise and remedy are usually specified by special legislation
- The 2026 text clarifies digital and procedural guarantees
- Some rights belong to everyone, while others are specific to citizens

Rights

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms

Rights and Freedoms


Question: My Personal Data Was Leaked – What Should I Do

My Personal Data Was Leaked – What Should I Do The Constitution protects personal data against unlawful collection, processing, storage, and use, including with digital technologies. If your data are leaked, preserve evidence, contact the data operator, and submit a complaint to the Information Security Committee. ## What the Constitution Protects

Article 21 protects personal data against unlawful collection, processing, storage, and use, including with digital technologies. Consent, other lawful grounds for processing, retention periods, biometric data, and deletion procedures are governed by specific legislation.

## What to Do When Data Are Leaked

1. **Preserve evidence:** screenshots, page addresses, messages from the organisation, the date, and the circumstances of discovery.
2. **Contact the data owner or operator:** request an explanation, cessation of unlawful processing, and deletion or correction where the law provides for it.
3. **Submit a complaint through eOtinish to the authorised body:** supervision is handled by the Information Security Committee of the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development.
4. **Provide verifiable details:** the organisation or person involved, the circumstances of the violation, and available evidence. These are needed for an unscheduled inspection or administrative proceedings.
5. **Contact law enforcement** if there are signs of fraud, extortion, unlawful access, or another crime.
6. **Go to court** if you need the violation stopped or proven harm compensated.

The Constitutional Court reviews not the leak itself, but the constitutionality of a legal norm that directly affects your rights. The citizen application mechanism has operated since 2023.

[Authorised body guidance](https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/maidd/activities/9552?lang=ru&parentId=6) - Processing is allowed with consent or another lawful basis
- The authorised body is the Information Security Committee
- A complaint needs concrete circumstances and supporting materials
- Deletion or correction may be requested where and as provided by law
- If there are signs of a crime, contact law enforcement

Rights

life-personal-data-leaked faq rights Rights

Digital Rights

Law on Personal Data and Their Protection

Authorised body guidance on personal-data protection

Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of Kazakhstan


Question: I Was Detained by Police – What Are My Rights

I Was Detained by Police – What Are My Rights If detained, establish the reason and actual time, request a lawyer and do not sign documents whose content has not been explained. The 48-hour limit operates together with procedural law; seek legal assistance for a concrete case. ## First steps

If you are detained, stay calm and ask for the reason, legal ground and actual time of the measure. Preserve copies or details of any documents you receive.

## Legal assistance

State clearly that you want to contact a lawyer. Do not sign a document whose content has not been explained or which you do not understand. Ask for a relative or another person you name to be notified; the procedure for notice is governed by procedural law.

## Time limits and a complaint

The duration of detention, judicial control and access to a defence lawyer depend on procedural status and the applicable law. The 48-hour rule operates together with those procedures. To challenge an unlawful action, record the time, officials' details and documents.

This material is general orientation, not case-specific legal advice. Contact a lawyer or legal-aid organisation promptly for a concrete case. - Establish the reason, legal ground and actual time of detention
- Request a lawyer and do not sign unexplained documents
- Preserve the details of notices and documents
- Time limits and safeguards depend on the applicable procedure

Rights

life-detained-by-police faq rights Rights

Personal Liberty and Detention

Presumption of Innocence

Dignity and Prohibition of Torture

Constitutional Law on the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Kazakhstan


Question: How to Protect Your Constitutional Rights

If a right is violated, the right path depends on the situation: an ordinary court, the Constitutional Court, the ombudsperson, or the prosecutor's office. Below is how to choose the right channel, what to prepare, and where to start without confusion.

How Constitutional Rights Can Be Protected The right route depends on what happened, which act was applied, and which deadline is running. Preserve evidence and check the deadline first: an Ombudsman or prosecutor complaint usually does not replace court proceedings and does not suspend procedural deadlines. ## Start with urgency

If a person is detained, faces violence, or needs immediate protection, do not wait for an agency response: contact a lawyer, tell a trusted person, record the time and circumstances, and call 102 or 112 in immediate danger.

In other cases, preserve the decision, notice, correspondence, photographs, video, and witness details. Record the date you learned about the violation because it may determine the deadline for a complaint or claim.

## Ordinary court or administrative complaint

A court is the main route to obtain a binding decision in a concrete dispute. But the type of proceedings, venue, prior administrative complaint, and deadline depend on the case. There is no universal filing rule.

If the dispute concerns a public authority decision, check the administrative complaint procedure first. If a court act already exists, separately check the appeal or cassation deadline. When in doubt, obtain legal help before the deadline expires.

## When the Constitutional Court is the right route

The Constitutional Court does not re-decide the facts of a case instead of an appeal. A citizen challenges a law or other normative legal act that directly affected their constitutional rights in a concrete case.

As a general rule, a final court act applying the challenged rule is required, and the application must be filed within **one year** after that act. The constitutional law provides limited exceptions. Applications may be submitted through eGov, e-Otinish, by post, or in person; representation is not mandatory, but legal assistance is useful.

If a normative act is found inconsistent with the Constitution, the act or relevant provision ceases to operate and cannot be applied from the Constitutional Court decision date or another date set by the Court.

## Ombudsman and prosecution service

The Ombudsman receives human-rights complaints, works with public bodies, and may issue recommendations, but does not set aside court decisions.

The prosecution service supervises legality and acts within its competence. A complaint does not guarantee prosecutorial intervention and does not replace the procedure set by law for challenging a decision.

**Important:** applications to the Ombudsman, the prosecution service, or another agency usually **do not suspend** the deadline for court or Constitutional Court proceedings.

## Practical order

1. Record the decision or action, date, and authority.
2. Preserve documents and other evidence.
3. Check the specific deadline and any mandatory pre-court procedure.
4. Define the goal: set aside a decision, restore a right, seek compensation, or review a normative act.
5. Seek legal help if the cost of an error is high or the deadline is short.

## Useful links

- [Constitutional Court of the Republic of Kazakhstan](https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/constitution-court)
- [Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman)](https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/ombudsman)
- [Free legal aid – Ministry of Justice](https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/minjust) - The type of court, venue, and deadline depend on the individual dispute
- The Constitutional Court reviews a normative act and does not replace an appeal on case facts
- The general deadline for a citizen application is one year after the relevant court act; the law provides exceptions
- The Ombudsman and prosecution service do not replace court proceedings and usually do not suspend procedural deadlines

Rights

Protection of Rights and Legal Assistance

Constitutional Court

Prosecutor's Office

Human Rights Commissioner

Advocacy and Legal Assistance


Question: What Rights a Person Has Upon Detention

What Rights a Person Has Upon Detention If detained, establish the reason and actual time, request a lawyer and retain the documents. The 48-hour limit operates together with procedural law; the type of proceeding and a person’s status may affect the next steps. ## Core guarantees

Constitutional and procedural safeguards apply during detention. Their concrete operation depends on the status of the person, the facts and the applicable procedure. Key safeguards may include:

- the right to be informed of one’s rights
- immediate access to a lawyer
- the possibility of notifying relatives or close persons
- access to judicial control
- protection from torture and unlawful coercion

## What the new Constitution strengthens

The applicable rules on judicial control and time limits, including the 48-hour rule where it applies, must be read with the relevant procedural legislation.

A detained person should be informed of procedural rights in the manner provided by law:
- the detained person must be clearly informed of their rights
- the timing and form of information are governed by the applicable procedure
- access to legal assistance follows the applicable legal procedure

## Why a lawyer matters

A lawyer can:
- helps protect the detained person from abuse
- explains the right to remain silent or give statements
- ensures procedural guarantees are respected
- helps file complaints against unlawful actions

## Why this stage is sensitive

The moment of detention is one of the highest-risk points for rights violations. If safeguards are weak here, fairness later in the process becomes much harder to ensure.

## What a person should remember

A detained person should:
- remain silent where the law allows
- request a lawyer
- challenge unlawful treatment
- refuse unlawful pressure - Detention safeguards include information, legal counsel, judicial control and protection from abuse
- Time limits, including the 48-hour rule where it applies, operate with procedural legislation
- The content and timing of information depend on the applicable procedure
- Prompt legal assistance helps protect procedural rights

Rights

Personal Liberty and Detention

Presumption of Innocence

Dignity and Prohibition of Torture


Question: National Bank

National Bank The National Bank is the central bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Its primary objective is price stability; it also works on monetary policy, payment systems, currency regulation and financial stability. The Chair of the National Bank is appointed by the President. ## Status

The National Bank is the **central bank** of the Republic of Kazakhstan. It is a constitutional-level institution because price stability and trust in money are fundamental to the functioning of the state and the economy.

## Main objective

Its primary objective is:

- ensuring price stability
It contributes to financial stability, payment-system reliability and currency regulation, but it does not set retail prices directly.

## Key functions

The National Bank performs several core functions:

- conducts monetary policy through the base rate, liquidity tools and inflation expectations
- manages foreign exchange reserves
- supports financial stability together with other regulators
- issues the national currency

## Appointment of the Chair

The Chair of the National Bank is appointed:

- by the President
- and dismissed by the President

## Independence and accountability

A central bank must have enough independence to make monetary decisions without short-term political pressure.

At the same time, it must remain publicly accountable:
- for major policy directions
- for implementation of monetary objectives
- for the legality and stability of the financial framework

## Why this matters

Inflation, currency stability, and trust in the financial system affect everyday life directly. That is why the National Bank is not merely a technical body but a major constitutional institution. - The National Bank is the central bank of Kazakhstan
- Its main objective is price stability
- The Chair is appointed and dismissed by the President
- It combines monetary-policy independence with constitutional accountability

Government

National Currency and Tenge Issuance

Appointment of the National Bank Chair

Participation in Kurultai Sittings

Transitional Appointment of the National Bank Chair

Information about the National Bank of Kazakhstan

The Chair of the National Bank is appointed and dismissed by the President; Kurultai consent is not required for this appointment.

The National Bank affects price stability through monetary policy and inflation expectations, not by directly setting retail prices.


Question: Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan The Government is the highest executive body responsible for implementing state policy, managing the economy, social development, and public administration. It is formed by the President and is accountable to both the President and the Kurultai under the new constitutional model. ## Constitutional role

The Government is the **highest executive body** of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Its task is not to make the Constitution, but to implement state policy in practice.

It is responsible for:
- economic administration
- social policy
- public services
- law and order within executive competence
- execution of laws and state programs

## Composition

The Government is headed by the Prime Minister and includes:

- Deputy Prime Ministers
- ministers
- heads of central executive bodies where constitutionally or legally required

## Formation

Under the constitutional model:

- the Prime Minister is appointed by the President with the consent of the Kurultai
- the Government’s structure is determined by the President
- members of the Government are appointed within the executive formation process

This keeps the Government within a presidential system while adding parliamentary oversight at the key stage of appointment.

## Accountability

The Government is accountable:

- to the President, as the head of state in a presidential system
- to the Kurultai, through reporting and political oversight mechanisms

This dual accountability is important because it combines executive unity with parliamentary scrutiny.

## Main areas of work

In the economy:
- prepares and executes the republican budget
- manages state property and economic policy
- implements financial and development measures

In social policy:
- implements education, healthcare, labor, and culture policy
- ensures social protection mechanisms
- carries out public welfare programs

In administration and security:
- organizes implementation of laws
- maintains public administration systems
- acts within the framework of legality and citizens’ rights

## Why this matters

The Government remains executive in nature, but in the 2026 model it operates under more visible constitutional accountability than in a purely centralized executive design. - The Government is the highest executive body
- The Prime Minister is appointed by the President with Kurultai consent
- The Government is accountable to both the President and the Kurultai
- Its work covers the economy, social policy, and administrative implementation

Government

Government

Government

Government

Government

Government

Government

Government

Official constitutional documents


Question: Kurultai: Kazakhstan's New Parliament

Kurultai Supreme Representative Body The Kurultai is the unicameral parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The 2026 Constitution replaces the bicameral structure of the Senate and Mazhilis with a single representative body of 145 deputies elected through a nationwide proportional system. Its constitutional powers are significantly greater than those of the previous parliament. ## What the Kurultai is

The Kurultai is the **supreme representative body** of the Republic of Kazakhstan under the 2026 Constitution. It replaces the previous bicameral Parliament, which consisted of the Senate and the Mazhilis.

## Structure

Under the new model:

- the Kurultai is unicameral
- it consists of **145 deputies**
- deputies are elected through a nationwide proportional system
- legislative responsibility is concentrated in one chamber

## Why replace the bicameral system

The 2026 Constitution reflects the view that the experience of the bicameral parliament showed several limits:

- coordination between two chambers slowed the legislative process
- duplication of functions reduced efficiency
- responsibility was diffused across separate institutions

A unicameral structure is presented as a way to improve:
- transparency
- speed
- personal accountability of deputies

## Powers

The Kurultai’s constitutional powers are expanded from **13 to 23 functions**.

These include:
- adopting laws and constitutional amendments subject to the constitutional procedure
- approving the republican budget
- ratifying international treaties
- giving consent to appointments expressly listed in the Constitution
- hearing Government reports
- expressing no confidence in the Government
- calling presidential elections in cases established by law
- considering defense and security decisions where the Constitution expressly gives the Kurultai a role

## Role in checks and balances

The Kurultai is not only a law-making body. It is also a central institution of oversight.

By requiring consent for major appointments and by hearing reports from the Government and other institutions, it becomes more influential in the system of checks and balances.

## Why this matters

The transition to the Kurultai is one of the most visible institutional changes in the entire constitutional reform because it reshapes how representation, legislation, and oversight work at the national level. - The Kurultai replaces the Senate and Mazhilis
- It is a unicameral parliament with 145 deputies
- Its powers expand from 13 to 23 constitutional functions
- It plays a stronger oversight role through consent and reporting mechanisms

Government

Kurultai

Kurultai

Kurultai

Kurultai

Kurultai

Kurultai

Kurultai

Kurultai

Kurultai

Kurultai

Kurultai

Constitutional Law on the Kurultai of the Republic of Kazakhstan


Question: President of the Republic of Kazakhstan

President of the Republic of Kazakhstan The President is the head of state, guarantor of the Constitution, and protector of the rights and freedoms of citizens. The 2026 Constitution preserves the presidential form of government and strengthens checks and balances through Kurultai consent for several defined appointments. ## Constitutional status

The President is the **head of state** and the central institution of the constitutional system. The President is not simply a political leader but the constitutional guarantor of state continuity, legality, and the coordinated functioning of public authorities.

The President:

- represents the Republic of Kazakhstan
- ensures observance of the Constitution
- protects the rights and freedoms of citizens
- acts as an arbiter within the system of state power

## Term and mandate

Under the new constitutional model, the President serves:

- for a **single 7-year term**
- without the right to immediate re-election
- as a politically neutral figure above party competition

This preserves the core presidential model while limiting long-term concentration of personal power.

## Key powers

In legislation:
- signs and promulgates laws
- has veto power and may return a law to the Kurultai for reconsideration
- initiates laws and constitutional amendments
- calls referendums in constitutionally established cases

In executive power:
- appoints the Prime Minister with the consent of the Kurultai
- appoints the Vice President with the consent of the Kurultai
- determines the structure and approves the composition of the Government

In judicial and law-enforcement institutions:
- appoints the Chair of the Constitutional Court; appoints Constitutional Court judges with the consent of the Kurultai
- appoints the Prosecutor General
- appoints the Chair of the National Bank

In defense and security:
- serves as Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces
- introduces a state of emergency
- introduces martial law in cases of aggression or direct external threat and immediately informs the Kurultai

## What changes in 2026

The 2026 Constitution does not abolish presidential government. Instead, it recalibrates it.

The main change is not the disappearance of the presidency, but the strengthening of institutional filters:
- consent of the Kurultai is required for several defined appointments, including the Prime Minister, the Vice President, Constitutional Court judges, CEC members, and High Audit Chamber members
- parliamentary oversight becomes more meaningful
- continuity is supported by the introduction of the Vice President

## Why this matters

A strong presidency remains part of the constitutional design, but it operates within a more visible framework of consent, accountability, and institutional balance. - The President remains the head of state and guarantor of the Constitution
- The term remains one 7-year term
- Several defined appointments require the consent of the Kurultai
- The 2026 model preserves presidential rule but strengthens checks and balances

Government

President

President

President

President

President

President

President

The President appoints the Chair of the Constitutional Court, the Chair of the National Bank, and the Prosecutor General without Kurultai consent; Kurultai consent is required for Constitutional Court judges, CEC members, and High Audit Chamber members.


Question: Vice President of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Vice President of the Republic of Kazakhstan The Vice President is a new constitutional office created to ensure continuity of governance, coordination, and institutional stability. Appointed by the President with the consent of the Kurultai, the Vice President acts on the President's instructions and does not constitute an independently elected political centre. ## A new institution

One of the important innovations of the 2026 Constitution is the creation of the office of the **Vice President of the Republic of Kazakhstan**. This office is designed to ensure continuity of governance and provide a constitutional mechanism to prevent a power vacuum in case of early termination of presidential powers.

## How appointed

The Vice President is:

- appointed by the President
- subject to the consent of the Kurultai
- included in the executive architecture as a constitutionally recognized office

This creates a dual institutional filter: presidential nomination and parliamentary consent.

## Main functions

The Vice President:

- coordinates the work of the Government on the President’s instructions
- participates in Government and Kurultai sessions where necessary
- supports continuity in executive governance
- may temporarily perform presidential duties in constitutionally defined situations

## Temporary presidential duties

If the President’s powers terminate early, the Vice President temporarily acts as President until new elections are held.

This temporary period is limited:
- it is not a full independent mandate
- it exists to prevent a power vacuum
- it ends once a newly elected President takes office

## Limitations

The Vice President is not a second President and does not create a dual executive.

The office:
- does not possess an independent political mandate
- acts within powers delegated or defined by the Constitution
- does not replace the President as the head of state
- is primarily an institution of continuity and coordination

## Why it matters

This office is designed to eliminate power vacuums and ensure that the executive branch continues to function during constitutionally defined situations. - The Vice President is a new constitutional office
- Appointment requires both presidential nomination and Kurultai consent
- The office ensures continuity of governance and executive coordination
- Temporary assumption of duties prevents a power vacuum during constitutionally defined situations

Government

Vice President

Vice President

Vice President

Official constitutional documents


Question: Local Government and Self-Government

Local Government and Self-Government Local government and self-government are the institutions through which public authority is exercised at the level closest to citizens. They include local executive bodies, representative bodies, and self-government mechanisms that address everyday issues such as infrastructure, services, local budgets, and community development. ## Why local government matters

For most citizens, the state is encountered first not at the national level but through local institutions. Roads, schools, utilities, transport, public spaces, and local services are shaped primarily at the local level.

## What it includes

Local government and self-government include:

- local executive bodies
- representative bodies such as maslikhats
- mechanisms of local participation and consultation
- forms of community-level self-organization

## Main functions

At the local level, public authorities deal with:

- local budgets and development planning
- communal infrastructure
- social and public services
- environmental and urban issues
- implementation of national policy in local conditions

## Balance of powers

Local government is important because it combines:
- executive management
- representative oversight
- citizen participation

A healthy local constitutional model does not rely only on administrative command. It also requires accountability to residents and representative institutions.

## Why the Constitution matters here

Constitutional recognition of local government gives these institutions legal protection and defines their place in the overall architecture of the state. This matters for decentralization, responsiveness, and public trust.

## Why this matters

The quality of local government often determines how citizens judge the state as a whole, because it is the level of power they experience most directly. - Local government is the level of public authority closest to citizens
- It includes executive bodies, representative institutions, and participation mechanisms
- It is central for budgets, services, infrastructure, and community issues
- Constitutional recognition strengthens its legal role in the state system

Government

Local Government and Self-Government

Local Government and Self-Government

Local Government and Self-Government

Local Government and Self-Government

Local Government and Self-Government


Question: Prosecutor General

Prosecutor General The prosecution service exercises the highest supervision over legality on behalf of the state within the limits and forms established by law. The President appoints and dismisses the Prosecutor General, who serves one non-renewable six-year term. ## Constitutional role

Under Article 84, the prosecution service exercises the highest supervision over legality on behalf of the state, represents state interests in court, and conducts criminal prosecution. The law defines the limits, forms, and procedure.

This does not mean that prosecutors must intervene in every complaint or can replace a court. The subject of the complaint, the authority’s competence, and the special route for protection matter in each case.

## Status of the Prosecutor General

The President appoints and dismisses the Prosecutor General. The term is six years, and the same person cannot be appointed more than once.

The prosecution service is a single centralized system. It acts independently from other state bodies and officials and is accountable to the President within the constitutional framework.

## When a complaint may fit

A complaint to the prosecution service may fit where it concerns legality or indicators of a violation within its competence. Preserve documents and identify the authority, action, date, and rule that you believe was breached.

A prosecutor complaint does not itself set aside a court decision and usually does not suspend a deadline for an administrative complaint, claim, appeal, or constitutional application.

## Verify the route

- [Prosecution Service of the Republic of Kazakhstan](https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/prokuror)
- [How to protect constitutional rights](/p/rights-how-to-protect?lang=en) - The prosecution service supervises legality, represents state interests in court, and conducts criminal prosecution within the law
- The President appoints and dismisses the Prosecutor General for one non-renewable six-year term
- The prosecution service does not replace a court or guarantee intervention in every complaint
- A complaint does not remove the need to meet procedural deadlines

Government

Appointment of the Prosecutor General

Prosecutor General Referral to the Constitutional Court

Prosecutor's Office

Transitional Appointment of the Prosecutor General

The Prosecutor General is appointed and dismissed by the President; Kurultai consent is not required for this appointment.


Question: Constitutional Court

Constitutional Court The Constitutional Court is an independent body of constitutional review. A citizen may challenge a normative legal act that directly affects their constitutional rights, but the constitutional law sets admissibility conditions for that route. ## Role of the Court

The Constitutional Court ensures the supremacy of the Constitution. It reviews laws and other normative legal acts within the competence set by Articles 72–75 of the Constitution.

It does not replace ordinary courts: it does not re-weigh evidence or hear an appeal on the merits of a dispute.

## Who may apply and about what

The President, Chair of the Kurultai, at least one fifth of Kurultai deputies, and the Prime Minister may apply on the matters expressly listed in Article 73, including laws before signature, Kurultai resolutions, international treaties before ratification, and official interpretation of the Constitution.

A court refers a normative act when it must apply that act and finds that it infringes constitutional rights. A citizen of Kazakhstan may challenge a law or other normative legal act that directly affects their rights and freedoms.

The constitutional law sets admissibility conditions for citizen applications. As a general rule, the challenged provision must have been applied in a concrete case and the application must be filed within one year after the relevant final court act. The law provides limited exceptions.

## Composition and independence

The Court has a Chair and ten judges. A judge serves one non-renewable eight-year term. The President appoints the Chair; the President appoints judges with the consent of the Kurultai.

The Constitution and constitutional law determine the Court’s status, guarantees, and procedure. A short explainer cannot replace legal advice where the subject, documents, and deadline matter.

## Legal force of decisions

Constitutional Court decisions take effect on the date of adoption, are binding throughout Kazakhstan, final, and not subject to appeal. A normative act or provision found unconstitutional ceases to operate and cannot be applied from the decision date or another date set by the Court.

## Verify the procedure

- [Constitutional Court of the Republic of Kazakhstan](https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/constitution-court)
- [Conditions for citizen applications](https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/ksrk/press/news/details/650574?lang=en)
- [How to protect constitutional rights](/p/rights-how-to-protect?lang=en) - The Constitutional Court reviews normative acts for compliance with the Constitution within its competence
- A citizen challenges an act that directly affects their rights and must meet admissibility conditions
- The Court does not replace an appeal on the facts of a case
- Its decisions are final, binding, and set the date from which an unconstitutional rule ceases to operate

Government

constitutional-court faq power Government

Constitutional Court

Constitutional Court

Constitutional Court

Constitutional Court

The Chair of the Constitutional Court is appointed by the President; Constitutional Court judges are appointed by the President with Kurultai consent for eight years.


Question: What the Maslikhat Does

What the Maslikhat Does The maslikhat is the local representative body through which local interests, oversight, and political accountability are expressed. Local governance should not consist only of executive administration – it must also include representation and public scrutiny. ## Role of the maslikhat

The maslikhat is the **local representative body**. It gives local governance a representative and political dimension, ensuring that local administration is not purely vertical and executive in character.

## Main functions

A maslikhat typically deals with matters such as:

- local development priorities
- budget-related issues
- oversight of local administration
- articulation of residents’ interests
- discussion of socially important local matters

## Why representative bodies matter locally

Local governance is healthier when it combines:

- executive action
- representative oversight
- public participation

Without a representative body, local power becomes too administrative and too closed.

## Relationship with the akim

The akim manages local executive action.
The maslikhat represents local interests and provides oversight.
Together, these institutions create a more balanced local model.

## Why this matters to citizens

If residents want local governance to reflect real needs, there must be institutions that can translate social demands into public discussion and local political accountability.

## Main idea

The maslikhat is important because it gives local governance a representative voice rather than leaving everything to administration alone. - The maslikhat is the local representative body
- It helps express residents’ interests and oversee local administration
- Local governance works better when executive and representative functions are balanced
- The maslikhat adds accountability to local administration

Local Government

local-maslikhat faq local Local Government

Local Public Administration

Local Representation

Acts of Maslikhats and Akims

Local Self-Government


Question: What Local Self-Government Is and How It Differs from Local Administration

What Local Self-Government Is and How It Differs from Local Administration Local administration is a top-down hierarchy: akims appointed from the centre. Local self-government is a bottom-up initiative: residents themselves decide what to repair and build. Since 2021, village akims are elected by residents. The 2026 Constitution enshrines self-government at the constitutional level. ## Two terms – two approaches

**Local administration:**
- Top-down hierarchy – akims are appointed or confirmed by the centre
- Implements policy from Astana at the local level
- Funded from the national budget
- Accountable to higher-level akims and the President

**Local self-government:**
- Bottom-up initiative – residents decide local issues themselves
- Forms include: residents' assemblies, public councils, elected akims
- Funded from the local budget
- Accountable to residents

**A practical example:** the road in your village is repaired not because Astana included it in a plan, but because residents and their elected akim decided it was a priority – that is self-government.

## Current framework

Since 2021, akims of **villages and settlements** are elected by residents. This is the first step toward genuine self-government. At the district and city level, appointment remains the current practice.

## What the 2026 Constitution changes

- **Constitutional recognition** of self-government – not merely a statutory rule but a provision of the fundamental law
- Extending **elected accountability** for akims to higher levels
- Strengthening the **role of maslikhats**
- Greater **financial autonomy** for local budgets

Self-government is not separatism. It is the resolution of local issues by residents within a unified state – as practiced in democratic countries from Sweden to South Korea. - Local administration = top-down hierarchy (appointed akims)
- Local self-government = bottom-up initiative (elections, residents' assemblies, local budget)
- Since 2021 – village akims are elected; the 2026 Constitution extends elected accountability higher
- The 2026 Constitution enshrines self-government at the constitutional level

Local Government

local-self-government faq local Local Government

Local Government and Self-Government

Local Government and Self-Government

Local Government and Self-Government

Local Government and Self-Government

Local Government and Self-Government


Question: Why Local Self-Government Matters

Why Local Self-Government Matters Local self-government matters because it is the level of public power closest to people’s everyday lives. It determines how communities are heard, how local priorities are set, and how quickly public problems can be identified and addressed. ## Closest level of power

For most citizens, the state is experienced first at the local level. Local self-government is where abstract constitutional principles become everyday reality.

## What it affects

Local self-government influences:

- neighborhood infrastructure
- schools, clinics, and services
- local budgets and spending priorities
- environmental and urban issues
- communication between authorities and residents

## Why it matters democratically

Democracy is not only national elections. It also depends on whether people can influence decisions in the places where they actually live.

Strong local self-government helps:
- make power more responsive
- bring decision-making closer to residents
- improve accountability
- adapt public policy to local conditions

## Why constitutional recognition matters

If local self-government is constitutionally protected, it has a clearer legal place in the structure of the state. That helps shield it from being treated as a purely technical administrative layer.

## Main idea

The stronger local self-government is, the more citizens feel that the state is accessible, understandable, and responsive in daily life. - Local self-government is the level of power closest to citizens
- It affects services, infrastructure, budgets, and local priorities
- It brings democracy into everyday life, not only national politics
- Constitutional recognition strengthens its legal role

Local Government

local-why-it-matters faq local Local Government

Local Government and Self-Government

Local Government and Self-Government

Local Government and Self-Government

Local Government and Self-Government

Local Government and Self-Government


Question: What the Local People’s Council Is

What the Local People’s Council Is The local People’s Council is a proposed participation mechanism at the local level through which residents, community representatives, experts, and civil society actors can discuss local issues and communicate them to public authorities. It is intended as a channel of dialogue, not a replacement for elected local institutions. ## Main idea

The local People’s Council is intended to create a **structured dialogue platform** at the local level. Its purpose is to help residents and organized community groups discuss local problems in a more regular and institutional form.

## Why such a body may be useful

Many local issues affect people directly:

- roads and transport
- utilities and housing matters
- schools and clinics
- public spaces
- environmental concerns
- local development priorities

In practice, residents often need a forum where these issues can be raised collectively rather than only through isolated complaints.

## What it may include

A local People’s Council may include:

- residents
- local experts
- representatives of civil society
- community activists
- professional and sectoral representatives
- local opinion leaders

## What it can do

Such a council may:

- discuss local development questions
- formulate recommendations
- identify community concerns early
- improve communication between residents and local authorities
- strengthen participatory local governance

## What it cannot do

The local People’s Council is not a parliament and not an executive body. It does not replace:

- the akim
- the maslikhat
- formal administrative procedures

Its value lies in consultation, dialogue, and articulation of local interests.

## Why it matters

If local participation mechanisms are real and active, people are more likely to see local governance as responsive rather than distant. - The local People’s Council is a dialogue and consultation mechanism
- It helps residents raise local issues in an organized way
- It does not replace the akim or the maslikhat
- Its value is participatory discussion and local feedback

Local Government

local-halyk-kenesi faq local Local Government

People's Council

People's Council

Constitutional Law on the Kazakhstan People's Council


Question: How a Citizen Can Participate in Governing the Country

How a Citizen Can Participate in Governing the Country Participation extends beyond elections: citizens may submit appeals, join peaceful assemblies and public councils, apply to the Constitutional Court, and support petitions under the Administrative Procedural Code. You can stand for election to a maslikhat from age 20 and to the Kurultai from age 25. ## Elections are not the only tool

Voting once every five years is just the beginning. The Constitution provides a range of ways to influence decisions.

## Forms of participation

**Elections and referendum:**
- Voting in elections to the Kurultai, maslikhats, and for akims
- Voting in a referendum
- Standing for election: **from age 20** to a maslikhat, **from age 25** to the Kurultai

**Appeals:**
- To a **state body** – it is obliged to respond within the prescribed period. Failure to respond is a violation of the law
- To the **Constitutional Court** – if a law violates your constitutional rights (free of charge, via eGov)
- To the **Ombudsman** – if a state body has violated your rights

**Public oversight:**
- **Public councils** attached to state bodies – participation in discussing decisions
- **Peaceful assemblies** – a constitutional right (notification procedure)
- **Trade unions and NGOs** – collective protection of interests

**New and existing mechanisms:**
- **Khalyk Kenesi (People's Council)** – 126 members, representatives of public groups with the right of legislative initiative
- **Petitions** – a collective-appeal process under Chapter 12-1 of the Administrative Procedural Code, not direct citizen introduction of a bill
- **Digital tools** – eGov as the platform for engaging with the state

## What works right now

- Your district maslikhat approves the budget – for roads, schools, hospitals
- The akim of your village is elected by you (since 2021)
- The Constitutional Court annuls unconstitutional laws on a citizen's application (since 2023)
- Public councils discuss decisions before they are adopted

All of this depends on participation. The tools work when people use them. - Elections, referendum, appeals, public councils, peaceful assemblies – all are forms of participation
- Standing for election: from age 20 to a maslikhat, from age 25 to the Kurultai
- The Constitution introduces Khalyk Kenesi; the Administrative Procedural Code governs petitions
- An application to the Constitutional Court is free; a state body must respond within the prescribed period

Local Government

local-citizen-participation faq local Local Government

Citizen Participation in Governance

People's Council

Local Government

Local Self-Government

Administrative Procedural Code of Kazakhstan, Chapter 12-1 on petitions


Question: What the Akim Does

What the Akim Does The akim is the head of the local executive authority and is responsible for administration, implementation of state policy, and management of local affairs within the relevant territory. In everyday life, the akim’s role is highly visible because it directly affects services, infrastructure, and local development. ## Who the akim is

The akim is the chief local executive official in a region, city, district, or other territorial unit. In practical terms, the akim is one of the most visible state figures in the daily life of citizens.

## Main responsibilities

The akim is responsible for:

- implementing laws and national policy at the local level
- managing local administration
- overseeing infrastructure and utilities
- coordinating social and economic development
- ensuring everyday functioning of local public services

## Why this office matters so much

People often judge the state not by constitutional theory, but by:

- roads
- public transport
- heating and water supply
- schools and clinics
- cleanliness and safety of public spaces

Many of these issues are directly connected to the quality of local executive management.

## Relationship with other local institutions

The akim does not operate alone. Local governance also involves:

- representative bodies such as maslikhats
- local participation mechanisms
- administrative and budget procedures
- interaction with residents and community groups

## Why accountability matters

Because the akim’s decisions affect people so directly, accountability and transparency at this level are especially important. Even a strong national constitutional design will feel weak to citizens if local administration works poorly.

## Main idea

The akim is the key executive actor of local government, and the quality of this office strongly shapes how citizens experience the state. - The akim is the head of local executive authority
- The office is responsible for services, infrastructure, and local administration
- Citizens experience state power very directly through local executive management
- Accountability at the akim level is crucial for trust in government

Local Government

local-akim-role faq local Local Government

Local Public Administration

Akim

Acts of Maslikhats and Akims

Official publication of the 2026 Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan


Question: What Public Oversight Means

What Public Oversight Means Public oversight means that citizens, experts, media, and civil society organizations can monitor public decisions and the way they are implemented. In the new constitutional model, it forms part of democratic participation beyond elections. ## Meaning of public oversight

Public oversight means that citizens do not merely observe the state from outside. They have ways to monitor openness, accountability, and the effectiveness of public action.

## Main forms

Public oversight can take different forms, including:

- access to open data
- public hearings
- expert review and commentary
- journalistic scrutiny
- civic monitoring
- formal requests and complaints
- petitions and public consultations

## Why it matters

Public oversight helps to:

- reduce the risk of closed decision-making
- strengthen anti-corruption safeguards
- make budget use and program implementation more visible
- increase public trust in institutions

## Role in the new constitutional model

In the new model, public oversight is not treated as a slogan but as part of a broader culture of participation. It is meant to:

- strengthen citizen involvement between elections
- improve the accountability of state bodies
- expand the role of civil society in public life

## What it requires

For oversight to be real, not symbolic, several conditions matter:

- information must be open
- procedures must be understandable
- responses to public requests must be required
- consultations must be meaningful rather than purely formal

## Why this matters

Elections are foundational, but they are not enough by themselves. Public oversight creates a form of everyday democratic participation. - Public oversight allows citizens and organizations to monitor public decisions
- Its forms include open data, hearings, monitoring, media scrutiny, and petitions
- It strengthens transparency, accountability, and anti-corruption safeguards
- It complements elections with everyday democratic participation

Civic Participation

public-control faq participation Civic Participation

Access to Information

Citizen Participation

People's Council

Calendar for the August 23, 2026 Kurultai election

Central Election Commission of Kazakhstan


Question: How Citizen Appeals and Petitions Differ

How Citizen Appeals and Petitions Differ Article 35 of the Constitution preserves the right to submit individual and collective appeals. Petitions are governed by Chapter 12-1 of the Administrative Procedural Code: they are a separate process for addressing public and local authorities, not a direct citizen right to introduce bills in the Kurultai. ## What the Constitution guarantees

Article 35 guarantees the right to submit individual and collective appeals to state bodies and local self-government bodies. This is the basic constitutional guarantee for communicating with public authorities.

Article 60 separately names the holders of legislative initiative: the President, Kurultai deputies, the Government, and the People's Council. Citizens are not directly included in that list.

## How petitions are governed

The petition process is established not by a separate constitutional rule, but by **Chapter 12-1 of the Administrative Procedural Code**.

- a draft petition is submitted through a state-designated internet resource or in writing;
- at least **50 citizens must join within 20 working days** before the draft is made publicly available;
- after publication, support may be collected for up to six months;
- the threshold depends on the addressee: **50,000 votes** are required for a matter within a central state body's competence, while different thresholds apply locally;
- a supported petition is reviewed within **40 working days** at central level and **20 working days** at local level;
- the final decision must give reasons and be published on the internet resource.

## What should not be confused

A petition may trigger review by the competent authority and a public, reasoned decision. It does not automatically become a bill and does not create a separate citizen right of legislative initiative.

[Administrative Procedural Code, Chapter 12-1: Articles 90-1–90-6](https://adilet.zan.kz/eng/docs/K2000000350#z1470) - The Constitution guarantees individual and collective appeals
- Articles 90-1–90-6 of the Administrative Procedural Code govern petitions
- A draft first needs 50 citizens for public placement; later thresholds depend on the addressee
- A petition is not a direct citizen legislative initiative

Civic Participation

petitions faq participation Civic Participation

Right to Petition


Question: What the Kazakhstan People’s Council Is

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.

[Constitutional Law on the Kazakhstan People’s Council](https://adilet.zan.kz/eng/docs/Z2600000298) - 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

Civic Participation

peoples-council faq participation Civic Participation

People's Council

People's Council

Decree establishing the Secretariat of the Kazakhstan People's Council


Question: What Role Civil Society Plays

What Role Civil Society Plays Civil society is the sphere of organizations, communities, experts, initiatives, and associations that exist outside the state but actively influence public life. Under the new constitutional model, civil society gains a stronger role as a channel through which citizens can shape discussion, oversight, and reform. ## What civil society is

Civil society is the space of organized public life outside the state itself. It includes actors who do not exercise state power but who influence public debate, protect interests, and help shape policy outcomes.

It may include:
- NGOs
- public associations
- expert communities
- rights-protection initiatives
- volunteer movements
- local grassroots groups

## Main function

Civil society helps to:

- raise public problems
- draw attention to neglected issues
- provide expertise and alternative proposals
- defend vulnerable groups
- create feedback for state institutions

## Why it matters in a democracy

If only the state speaks and everyone else only reacts, decision-making quality declines. Civil society introduces pluralism, criticism, practical experience, and independent perspectives into the public sphere.

## Place in the new constitutional model

The new constitutional model seeks to make civil society a more visible and effective participant through:

- consultative institutions such as the People’s Council
- public oversight mechanisms
- petitions and public discussion procedures
- rights protection and civic education

## Risk and limitation

The role of civil society must exist in practice, not only in formal text. If participation is merely decorative or independent voices are marginalized, the value of these institutions is weakened.

## Main idea

A strong civil society is not an enemy of the state. It is both a partner and a watchdog that helps improve public decisions. - Civil society includes NGOs, associations, expert groups, and grassroots initiatives
- It raises issues, provides expertise, and creates public feedback
- The new model gives it a stronger role in participation and oversight
- Strong civil society improves the quality of public decisions

Civic Participation

civil-society faq participation Civic Participation

Public Associations

Freedom of Association

Citizen Participation


Question: How the Relationship Between International Treaties and National Laws Will Change

How the Relationship Between International Treaties and National Laws Will Change The relationship between an international treaty and national law depends on the Constitution, the treaty’s legal status and the applicable legislation. For a concrete dispute, read the official text, ratification act and relevant procedure together. ## What to check

When relying on an international treaty, read the official text, the act that establishes its status for Kazakhstan, the Constitution and the applicable sector-specific law together. The name or general subject of a treaty does not itself decide a concrete case.

## When there appears to be a conflict

The relationship between the documents is assessed against the specific provision, facts and procedure. A court or other competent body considers the official texts, evidence and its jurisdiction. This page does not predetermine the outcome of a particular dispute or the status of a particular treaty.

## Practical steps

1. Find the official published version of the treaty.
2. Verify its status for Kazakhstan and the relevant ratification act.
3. Identify the national-law provision and procedure that apply.
4. Obtain qualified advice or an explanation from the competent body for a concrete matter. - The official text and legal status of a treaty matter more than its title
- The Constitution, sector-specific law and procedure shape concrete application
- A conflict depends on the facts and decision of the competent body
- Check the official text together with the ratification act

Practical

practical-international-treaties faq practical Practical

Applicable Law

International Treaties

Presidential Foreign Relations

Ratification of International Treaties

Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan of 1995 (official archive publication)


Question: How to Discuss the Constitution With Family, Friends, or Colleagues

How to Discuss the Constitution With Family, Friends, or Colleagues Discuss the Constitution by focusing on the actual text, before-and-after comparisons, and practical examples rather than slogans or out-of-context excerpts. The goal should be understanding, not winning an argument. ## Where to start

Constitutional discussion can quickly become emotional. A better starting point is not “who is right,” but:

- what exactly is changing
- which article it concerns
- what the old rule was
- what the proposed new rule is
- how that might affect real life

## A useful discussion method

A practical sequence is:

1. Choose one topic, such as rights, power, or referendum procedure.
2. Read the relevant text or explanatory card.
3. Compare the old and proposed versions.
4. Discuss one practical example.

## What to avoid

It is better to avoid:

- arguing from screenshots alone
- relying only on emotional slogans
- making final conclusions without reading the text
- treating disagreement as hostility

## Why this matters

The Constitution is a common legal framework for everyone. That is why productive discussion should aim at clearer understanding of the text rather than symbolic political victory.

## Main idea

The best conversation is usually the calmest one: text first, comparison second, interpretation third. - Productive discussion starts with the text and comparison, not slogans
- One-topic-at-a-time discussion works better than abstract argument
- Screenshots and fragments are a weak basis for serious conclusions
- The goal of discussion should be understanding the text

Practical

practical-how-to-discuss faq practical Practical

Access to Information

Freedom of Association

Peaceful Assembly

Citizen Participation