Reference

Kazakhstan has faced significant criticism regarding its stance on human rights and freedom of speech. Various reports and analyses from international organizations provide a consistent picture of the situation:

1. Restricted Freedoms: Amnesty International highlights that the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association in Kazakhstan continue to be unduly restricted (Amnesty International).

2. Media and Speech Limitations: The Freedom House reports indicate that freedoms of speech and assembly are heavily restricted and dominant media outlets are either state-owned or controlled by individuals close to the government (Freedom House 2024).

3. Legislative and Practical Measures: The U.S. State Department points out that while Kazakhstan's constitution provides for freedom of speech, in practice, the government limits individuals' ability to criticize the leadership and regional authorities, which stifles open discourse and dissent (U.S. Department of State).

4. Impact of New Laws: Human Rights Watch has reported concerns about new media laws which threaten further limitations on freedom of speech and information (Human Rights Watch).

5. International Rankings: Kazakhstan's press freedom is ranked poorly on the global stage. For example, Reporters Without Borders ranked Kazakhstan 158th out of 180 nations in the World Press Freedom Index, citing strict controls over freedom of speech and assembly (Human Rights Measurement Initiative).

This consistent pattern of restrictions indicates a challenging environment for human rights and freedom of speech in Kazakhstan. Despite constitutional guarantees, practical limitations and new legislations pose significant hurdles to these freedoms.