Tokayev: New Constitution Elevates Human Rights Protection to Absolute Priority

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, speaking at a forum of deputies from local representative bodies (maslikhats) in Astana, outlined the core principles of the draft new Constitution. He emphasized that the proposed fundamental law places the protection of human rights and freedoms above all else.

The head of state stated that the document exemplifies a humane approach to citizens, covering all stages of life. "From birth and receiving primary and secondary education to starting a family and ending with the responsibility of adult children for their disabled parents," Tokayev noted.

He highlighted that some norms in the draft, which recently seemed like social utopia, are now being codified. A key innovation is a shift in perspective regarding harm. "For instance, if the current Constitution speaks of harm a citizen may cause to the state, the new Constitution introduces a norm concerning harm that may be inflicted by the state on an individual," the President explained.

This specifically refers to the state's obligation to compensate for damage caused by unlawful actions of state bodies or their officials.

Tokayev invoked a guiding principle for the reform: "The constitution of a state must be such that it does not violate the constitution of a person." He stressed that this aphorism fully reflects new approaches to safeguarding the rights, freedoms, and interests of Kazakhstan's citizens.

"I once again draw attention to the primacy of Law and Order as a state ideology," he added. "Without its full understanding and transformation into a crucial element of the national mentality, it is difficult to talk about strengthening Kazakh statehood."

During his address, President Tokayev also expressed gratitude to all citizens who contributed to working on the text of the new Constitution.