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Kazakhstan enforces a new law restricting 'LGBT content' in media and public spaces, a popular step taken by many governments across the world.
New regulation set to affect media, internet and public spaces.
The legislation, framed as a measure to protect children from “harmful content,” introduces fines and up to 10 days in prison for violations.
The law now moves to the Senate before being presented for the president’s approval.
On Nov. 12, 2025, the Mazhilis approved the bill during its second reading, allowing it to advance in the legislative process. Lawmakers supporting the bill emphasized regulatory oversight of content distributed in public and digital spaces.
The law now moves to the Senate before being presented for the president’s approval.
In contrast, international human rights organizations claim the law restricts freedom of expression.
The United Nations and regional human rights bodies have previously cautioned that similar bans may suppress freedom of speech and increase social discrimination.
If approved by the Senate and signed by the president, the law will enter into force nationwide and apply to broadcasters, publishers, digital platforms, and public venues across Kazakhstan.
The ruling party argues that the law is necessary to preserve “traditional values” in society and to shield young people from content they consider inappropriate.
In contrast, international human rights organizations claim the law restricts freedom of expression.
The United Nations and regional human rights bodies have previously cautioned that similar bans may suppress freedom of speech and increase social discrimination.
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