Draft of new Constitution presented in Kazakhstan

Draft of new Constitution presented in Kazakhstan

At the sixth meeting on constitutional reform, the first draft of Kazakhstan’s new Constitution was presented. The document consists of a Preamble, 11 sections, and 95 articles. The Preamble enshrines national values reflecting the country’s historical path and outlining the priorities of its future development. The draft was prepared taking into account proposals submitted over a six-month period by citizens, public organizations, political parties, and experts, as well as the views, comments, and recommendations of the members of the Constitutional Commission. State Counsellor Erlan Karin, who also serves as Deputy Chair of the Commission, outlined the key provisions of the draft, noting that, for the first time, the Preamble defines human rights and freedoms as the state’s highest priority, while unity and harmony form the foundation of Kazakhstan’s statehood. The new Constitution will also enshrine the values of labor, knowledge, and progress, with greater attention given to environmental protection and the preservation of cultural heritage. In conclusion, Karin highlighted the significance of specific constitutional articles that have been amended. 

«The revised Section I, Article 3 sets out Kazakhstan’s core principles, including the protection of sovereignty and independence; respect for human rights and freedoms; enforcement of the rule of law and public order; strengthening of national unity; improvement of public welfare; cultivation of responsible and constructive patriotism; preservation of historical and cultural heritage; and support for national culture. As a result, the article’s scope has been significantly expanded. Fully aligned with the new Preamble, it stands as one of the key provisions of the draft Constitution, alongside the Preamble itselfKarin said.