Kazakhstan's New Constitution Takes Effect July 1, 2026, Setting Legal Overhaul Deadline

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has confirmed that Kazakhstan's new Constitution will officially come into force on July 1, 2026. He stated that the country's parliament must complete the extensive task of aligning all national legislation with the charter's provisions by this deadline.

The President made these remarks during a ceremony in Astana honoring scientists. He highlighted the historical significance of the constitutional referendum held on March 15, which was passed by an overwhelming majority of citizens.

Tokayev emphasized a key innovation in the updated Basic Law. "For the first time, the preamble of the Constitution formulates a clear orientation toward the values of culture, education, science, and innovation," he said. According to him, this elevates comprehensive support for these spheres to a matter of strategic importance and, critically, makes their development a constitutional duty of the state.

The head of state expressed gratitude to the entire scientific and academic community for their active contribution to developing and adopting the new Constitution.

"According to transitional provisions, the new Constitution will take effect on July 1, 2026," Tokayev stated. "By that time, all major laws must be brought into compliance with its norms. Parliament has already begun substantial legislative work in this direction. I expect deputies to consider draft laws qualitatively and promptly."

It was also announced during the event that elections for Kazakhstan's new bicameral Parliament—the Kurultai—will be held in August.