Deputy Comments on "Foreign Agent" Proposal

Deputy Irina Smirnova, who proposed introducing a law on foreign agents, was reminded that she once participated in foreign projects, Orda.kz reports.

The deputy previously participated in a SOROS-Kazakhstan Foundation project, where she expressed appreciation for learning about advocating for Kazakhstani rights.

This may sound strange to some, but it was working with the SOROS-Kazakhstan Foundation that helped me grow as a citizen of my country. I understood how one can and should talk about the rights of a teacher, a student, and simply a Kazakhstani. And what to do if these rights are violated, Irina Smirnova is quoted by the SOROS-Kazakhstan website.

However, Smirnova firmly denies receiving any NGO funding.

I was invited to talk about the problems that exist. Why not talk about them? I spoke as a representative of a non-governmental organization in defense of the rights of teachers and lecturers. I am absolutely not hiding anything. But I did not receive funding personally, did not participate in the grant program, but as an observer, as a participant in the discussions, I was there.

She maintains that the foreign agent law would ensure transparency about organizations receiving foreign support.

We need to declare where this grant aid came from, what it means, why it is being done at all. Why not talk about where these sources come from? There is nothing scary about it. Today, the grantors themselves are revealing this. And they say that this money is used not in the interests of the grantors themselves, but in the interests of those who spend it (a reference to USAID - Ed.). That's all.

When questioned about prioritizing foreign funding oversight over domestic budget misuse, Smirnova suggested media concerns stemmed from self-interest.

Well, you are probably worried about yourself because you probably have grants that you receive from some countries. We think that the time has come. Look at the geopolitical situation, the influence of countries on each other. I understand your worries. Because your grants, which you will have to disclose, probably also worry you very much.

Responding to concerns about potential restrictions, Smirnova referenced other countries' practices.

What does Russia have to do with it? There is an active agenda in Georgia and the UK. Europe has also accepted it. I listed certain countries. What's wrong with that? People want to know where the firewood comes from. We are talking about the need to open up the source of funding. If someone is funding you, well, tell us who, how much, and what the task is - that's it.

She added that organizations deemed harmful to state interests would be banned.

If a task is given there that is harmful to our state, and this can also happen, then such a person will not be able to work here.

The push for foreign agent legislation comes amid growing concerns among deputies about foreign NGOs' influence on Kazakhstan's society, with Smirnova proposing the law during a recent Majilis plenary session.

Original Author: Zhadra Zhulmukhametova