Reforms in Kazakhstan Discussed at the Council of Europe

Strasbourg, April 9-10, 2025 – Chairwoman of the Constitutional Court of Kazakhstan E. Azimova and Deputy Chairperson of the Senate of the Parliament of Kazakhstan O. Perepechina paid a working visit to the headquarters of the Council of Europe (CoE).

During the visit, the Kazakh delegation held meetings with CoE Secretary General A. Berset, CoE Commissioner for Human Rights M. O’Flaherty, President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) T. Rousopoulos, Chairman of the PACE political group "European Conservatives, Patriots and  Affiliates" PACE rapporteur on Kazakhstan Z. Nemeth, Judge of the European Court of Human Rights A. Arutyunyan, Deputy Secretary of the Venice Commission D. Freymann, and President of the Strasbourg Court F. Babot.

At the meeting with A. Berset, the parties discussed the further development of bilateral cooperation between Kazakhstan and the Council of Europe. The Head of the European organization was thoroughly informed about the ongoing democratic processes and constitutional reforms in Kazakhstan, as well as the activities of the Kazakh Parliament.

In his turn, Secretary General A. Berset recognized Kazakhstan as an important partner of the Organization. According to him, Kazakhstan and the Council of Europe share much in common, primarily their commitment to strengthening the human rights agenda. He highly appreciated Kazakhstan's active involvement in various mechanisms of the Organization, including the fight against corruption. A. Berset emphasized the importance of continuing joint work in various fields of activity within the Council of Europe.

The Kazakh delegation briefed the Human Rights Commissioner on President K. Tokayev’s initiatives aimed at radically transforming the country's political and socio-economic systems. It was emphasized that the reforms being carried out in Kazakhstan are driven by the demands of its citizens. The state is paying close attention to establishing an open dialogue with society and responding promptly to citizens' needs in the context of human rights protection.

O’Flaherty expressed satisfaction with the progress of reforms in Kazakhstan, including the abolition of the death penalty. He highlighted the importance of decentralization of power and the significant role of the Constitutional Court in the national human rights system. He expressed support for government initiatives aimed at assisting socially vulnerable groups.

During talks with the PACE President, issues of interparliamentary cooperation were discussed. Parliamentary diplomacy plays a key role in establishing direct contacts and addressing important issues. T. Rousopoulos was informed about the legislative activities of Kazakhstan’s Parliament aimed at implementing reforms, improving legislation, and strengthening the rule of law. In addition, the PACE President was informed about the Congress of the Leaders of World and Traditional Religions held in Kazakhstan.

The current state of human rights protection was discussed during the meeting with PACE political group chairman Z. Nemeth. The European MP emphasized the importance of implementing human rights reforms in Kazakhstan and expressed support for developing closer ties with the country. Special attention was given to the implementation of the Neighbourhood Cooperation Priorities with Kazakhstan.

An in-depth discussion on ongoing reforms in Kazakhstan took place at the European Court of Human Rights. Judge A. Arutyunyan was presented with detailed information about the Constitutional Court’s activities and the reforms being carried out. There was a constructive exchange of views on the role of constitutional oversight and its mechanisms of implementation.

At the meeting with the Venice Commission, practical steps for further cooperation and priority areas of interaction were discussed.

Reforms related to the establishment of the Constitutional Court in Kazakhstan were discussed at the meeting with F. Babot. Both sides emphasized the need and willingness to further develop mutually beneficial cooperation.