Kazakhstan: UN expert calls on the country’s authorities to engage all population groups in decision-making processes

May 15, 2026 Human rights

“Being the largest economy in Central Asia and having achieved significant progress in the field of digital transformation, Kazakhstan has all the prerequisites to become a leader in inclusive and sustainable development,” said the independent expert.

“At a time when many countries are spending excessive amounts on militarization, I welcome the fact that Kazakhstan directs a significant share of the budget to social needs to ensure the fair distribution of the fruits of development and reduction of inequality,” he added.

Deva emphasized the significant progress achieved by the country’s government in ensuring economic growth, infrastructure construction, maintaining cities in cleanliness, promoting digitalization, and stimulating innovation.

Space for expressing opinions

At the same time, he noted that according to the principle of “leaving no one behind,” the government should pay more attention to the development of rural areas and remote regions, in particular to ensure equal access to public services.

The expert also called on the Kazakh authorities to accelerate the adoption of a comprehensive law on combating discrimination and to intensify efforts to eradicate gender-based violence.

The special rapporteur expressed concern about restrictions on civic space, noting that this hinders the active, free, and effective participation of people in the decision-making process. Groups in marginal or vulnerable positions, such as children, women, migrants, persons with disabilities, and rural residents, face additional barriers.

“The state should provide more space for the expression of opinions that do not coincide with its position,” Deva stated.

“Green” economy

In addition, he emphasized the importance of cooperation between the government, UN structures, development partners, the private sector, and NGOs to accelerate the just transition to a “green” economy in the fields of energy, food, agriculture, and construction. At the same time, it is necessary to take into account threats related to access to water resources and environmental pollution.

“The government should accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources,” said the expert, also noting the potential of the private sector in efforts to achieve carbon neutrality. He emphasized that when conducting business, the principles of human rights and environmental protection must be upheld.

In his conclusion, Deva noted that he hopes to continue supporting Kazakhstan on the path to further realizing the right to development both within the country and beyond its borders.

Special rapporteurs are independent experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council. They are not UN staff members and do not receive a salary for their work. Experts act in a personal capacity and are independent from any government or organization.