Kazakhstan Plans Legal Reforms for NGOs and Charitable Activity Amid Perizat Kairat Case

Kazakhstan’s non-profit sector is set to undergo legislative reform amid a high-profile court case involving Perizat Kairat, Orda.kz reports.

According to Vice Minister of Culture and Information Kanat Iskakov, the government is preparing amendments to better regulate the activities of non-governmental and non-profit organizations (NGOs and NPOs), including licensing procedures and the organization of charitable events.

Everyone saw the recent court case. In response, the Ministry has formed a working group that includes experts in the field of non-profit organizations. New amendments are being drafted to address licensing, transparency, accountability, and other aspects of NGO operations. These changes will be reflected in the new law governing NGOs and NPOs,Iskakov said during a government press conference. 

Iskakov added that the need for reform stems not only from the Perizat Kairat case, but also from broader shifts in Kazakhstan's society and a growing demand for charitable initiatives:

First, we need to clearly define the terminology — what is an NGO, what is an NPO, what are they allowed to do, and what activities require licensing. Second, we must establish the responsibilities of those who lead such organizations, as well as ensure transparency and public accountability for their income and expenditures. 

He emphasized that these proposed reforms will be subject to open public discussion, including with the media and civil society.

In parallel, the government is also preparing amendments to the Law on Charity.

These will focus on encouraging citizens to engage in charitable giving, and on ensuring that charitable organizations are transparent and publicly accountable, including the regular publication of reports in the media,  Iskakov said.

The proposed legal changes are expected to be submitted to Parliament in 2026.

Original Author: Zhadra Zhulmukhametova