On visit to Astana, ODIHR reaffirms its readiness to support Kazakhstan with ongoing reform efforts

WARSAW, 30 April - ODIHR Director Maria Telalian conducted her first visit to Kazakhstan on 27 and 28 April, during which she held a series of meetings with senior national officials in Astana.

The visit took place at a significant political juncture for Kazakhstan, following a nationwide referendum and the adoption of a new Constitution, which will enter into force on 1 July 2026. The new Constitution paves the way for broad institutional and legislative reforms, including early parliamentary elections for the newly established unicameral parliament (Kurultai), anticipated for August 2026.

While in Astana, Telalian met with Maulen Ashimbayev, the Chairman of the Senate, Yermek Kosherbayev, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Elvira Azimova, the Chairwoman of the Constitutional Court, Artur Lastayev, the National Human Rights Commissioner (Ombudsman), and Mukhtar Yerman, the Deputy Head of the Central Election Commission.

During her meetings, Telalian expressed her appreciation for the long-standing co-operation between ODIHR and the national authorities, and underlined the Office's readiness to support Kazakhstan in its current legislative reform process. Kazakhstan has historically been one of the most active OSCE countries in requesting ODIHR's legislative assistance.

"Kazakhstan stands at an important crossroads in its institutional development," Telalian said. "ODIHR remains a reliable partner, ready to provide targeted expertise, legislative assistance, and practical support to help ensure that the ongoing reforms are in line with OSCE commitments and international standards. We look forward to continued constructive engagement in the time ahead."

Telalian held a separate meeting with representatives of civil society organizations, discussing trends and concerns related to the work of human rights defenders, the right to freedom of association and other fundamental rights and freedoms, including the right to freedom of religion or belief. The ODIHR Director emphasized that effective functioning of independent civil society organizations is an essential element of democracy, while also stressing the importance of inclusive and meaningful public consultation in the process of legislative reforms. ODIHR closely follows developments and will continue supporting civil society in Kazakhstan in accordance with the Office's mandate.