Balancing freedom and control: Contemporary legal regulation of religious activity in Kazakhstan
Buribayev Y. Turlykhankyzy K. Kalkayeva N. Khamzina Z.
14 July 2025Lviv State University of Internal Affairs
Social and Legal Studios
2025#8Issue 223 - 38 pp.
The regulation of religious activity in contemporary Kazakhstan is a critical issue shaped by the interplay between ensuring freedom of religion and maintaining state control. This study aimed to analyse the legal frameworks governing religious activity in Kazakhstan, with a particular focus on their alignment with international human rights standards and domestic socio-political dynamics. Employing legal analysis, comparative methods, and case studies, the research examined the country’s legislation and its practical implications for religious communities. The study revealed that Kazakhstan’s legal framework imposes significant restrictions on religious freedoms, including mandatory registration of religious associations, limitations on public worship, and broad state oversight. These measures often disproportionately affect minority religious groups, raising concerns about discrimination and barriers to religious pluralism. Despite Kazakhstan’s constitutional guarantees of religious freedom, the implementation of laws frequently conflicts with the country’s international obligations under treaties such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe commitments. Case studies of religious communities, including Jehovah’s Witnesses, the Ahmadiyya Muslim community, and the Baptist Church, further illustrated the practical challenges posed by existing regulations. These cases highlighted issues such as administrative overreach, discriminatory registration processes, and the marginalisation of non-traditional religious groups. The findings emphasised the need for legislative reforms to address ambiguities, harmonise national laws with international standards, and foster a more inclusive environment for religious communities. This research contributes to the broader discourse on religious regulation, offering practical insights for policymakers, legal practitioners, and human rights advocates. By addressing the tension between governance and religious freedom, the study provides a foundation for future reforms aimed at balancing societal stability and the protection of fundamental rights.
freedom of religion , law enforcement practices , legal regulation , legislative reforms , religious associations , religious policy
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Zhetysu University named after I. Zhansugurov, 187A Zhansugurov Str., Taldykorgan, 040009, Kazakhstan
Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University, 13 Dostyk Ave., Almaty, 050010, Kazakhstan
Zhetysu University named after I. Zhansugurov
Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University
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