Kazakhstan’s President Tokayev Signs a Decree on Further Measures of the country in the Field of Human Rights

Nur-Sultan, 10 June, 2021 – The President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has signed a decree “On further measures of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the field of human rights”. The Decree instructs the government to approve the Plan of Priority Measures in the Field of Human Rights (Action Plan).

The issue of the protection of human rights has been a priority for President Tokayev since his election as Head of State in June 2019. He highlighted specific plans for government actions aimed at addressing human rights issues through legislation during a second meeting of the National Council of Public Trust (December 2019). The President also spoke about human rights issues during his annual State-of-the-Nation Address in September 2020. In particular, he instructed the government to take comprehensive measures to protect citizens, especially children, from cyberbullying, combat human trafficking and torture. In February 2021, at the fifth meeting of the National Council of Public Trust, the President proposed a new package of measures aimed at enhancing human rights protection for convicted persons, as well as strengthening legal mechanisms for the protection of the rights of women.

The adoption of the 9^th June Decree further formalises human rights as one of the basic priorities of state policy. The implementation of its provisions will further promote the protection of human rights in Kazakhstan and contribute towards building a just and progressive state.