Draft Law on Territorial Defense Introduced in Majilis, Formalizes Role of Volunteers

A new draft law on territorial defense has been presented in the Majilis, Orda.kz reports.

For the first time, the legislation introduces the concept of civilian volunteers officially joining self-defense units during wartime.

According to lawmakers, the initiative will allow citizens to contribute to defending their local areas while helping the state identify and prepare necessary resources to protect key infrastructure.

Majilis member Maksim Rozhin explained that territorial defense will now function as an independent domain.

The law outlines the responsibilities of different levels of government, sets clear goals and tasks for the defense system, specifies which sites fall under protection, and provides a framework for response to military threats.

The Ministry of Defense will oversee this.

The draft legislation also includes proposed amendments to two codes and 14 existing laws. These changes aim to resolve legal inconsistencies and strengthen coordination between the Ministry of Defense, other government bodies, and transport companies to ensure military mobility and safeguard communication routes during emergencies.

Rozhin noted that the proposal was drafted collaboratively by representatives of all relevant agencies, with 25 working group sessions held. The bill has passed the second reading in the relevant Majilis committee and has been forwarded to the Senate for further consideration.

Original Author: Artyom Volkov