Human Rights Watch has expressed concern over proposed constitutional amendments in Kazakhstan, claiming that they significantly undermine checks on executive power and threaten fundamental human rights. The organization points out that the draft includes provisions that may impose 'excessive and unjustified' restrictions on freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly, and association, relying on vague language relating to 'public order' and 'morality.' Such changes could restrict civil society's ability to operate freely and hold the government accountable.

Additionally, the proposed amendments include constitutional constraints on financing political parties and trade unions from foreign and international organizations. The removal of references to the 'fundamental right to strike' and the requirement for NGOs to publicly disclose any foreign funding are particularly concerning. Critics argue that the draft constitution, made available for discussion on January 31, proposes changes affecting approximately 80% of the current constitution, with a referendum set for March 15 to gauge public support for these changes.

Kazakhstan's authorities assert that these amendments are necessary to ensure 'stability' and governance. However, Human Rights Watch and other advocacy groups fear that the extensive changes could lead to greater repression and further entrench existing power dynamics, limiting the rights and freedoms of Kazakh citizens. The implications of these amendments could reverberate throughout the region, as they may signal a trend of regressive reforms under the guise of stability and governance, raising alarms among international observers regarding the state of democracy in Kazakhstan.