The Importance of Freedom of Speech in Kazakhstan

This section discusses the significance of freedom of speech in Kazakhstan and its impact on society.

Freedom of Speech in 2016

• In 2016, amidst land protests, the importance of freedom of speech was highlighted.

• The initial focus was on internet censorship and restrictions on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Telegram.

Challenges to Freedom of Speech

• In 2018, there were further limitations on freedom of speech in Kazakhstan.

• The evening news would often feature the shutdown or blocking of social media platforms.

• The right to freedom of speech was questioned, and individuals could be deprived of this right.

Digital Literacy and Restrictions

• The level of digital literacy among the population played a role in understanding the importance of freedom of speech.

• Proxy servers and VPNs were used to bypass restrictions imposed by the government.

• Despite efforts to block certain websites or platforms, people continued to find ways to express themselves online.

Rating Freedom of Speech

• Ratings measuring freedom of speech continued to be compiled, including those specific to Kazakhstan.

• Lectures and seminars focused on censorship techniques were conducted by Kazakhstani organizations.

Investigative Journalism Impact

• In spring 2019, investigative journalism had a significant impact in Kazakhstan.

• A series of revelations led to public outcry and even contributed to political changes.

Challenges Faced

• Journalists faced obstacles when reporting on sensitive topics or criticizing those in power.

• Some topics were avoided altogether due to self-censorship or pressure from authorities.

Censorship vs. Free Expression

• The concept and practice of freedom of speech were not limited to criticizing the government.

• It extended to discussing topics that were considered taboo or controversial.

Freedom of Speech and Human Rights (0:18:

[t=0:19:18] The Impact of Populism on Society and Business

This section discusses the negative effects of right-wing populism on society and business. It highlights how these movements prioritize their own interests over the well-being and prosperity of the general population.

The Motives Behind Right-Wing Populism

• Right-wing populism is driven by a desire to protect the interests of wealthy entrepreneurs rather than promoting overall economic growth and stability.

• Citizens, in general, do not have hope for personal enrichment but instead witness the concentration of wealth within a single family.

• Positive changes are unlikely to occur if media outlets fail to report on them.

The Role of Media in Exposing Corruption

• Investigative journalism plays a crucial role in uncovering corruption and bringing it to public attention.

• Freedom of speech is essential for holding those in power accountable.

• Countries with a free press have seen mass protests against economic inequality and government repression.

The Connection Between Press Freedom and Economic Prosperity

• Research shows that countries with greater press freedom tend to have higher GDP per capita.

• There is a direct correlation between restrictions on journalists' work and an increase in violence towards peaceful demonstrations.

• Independent media outlets, including online platforms, have been targeted by authorities.

Challenges Faced by Independent Media Outlets

• Independent Belarusian media outlets, such as radio stations or newspapers, face significant obstacles due to government censorship.

• These outlets contribute to society by paying taxes and creating job opportunities.

• Critical voices are labeled as extremists or silenced through legal means.

The Importance of Freedom of Speech

• Freedom of speech is a fundamental human right that ensures transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law.

• However, this right is not absolute; it can be restricted or violated under certain circumstances.

• In Belarus, individuals who express their opinions freely may face severe consequences.

Contrasting Experiences: Estonia vs. Belarus

• The constitution of independent Kazakhstan guarantees the right to freedom of speech, similar to the experience in Belarus.

• Estonia, on the other hand, has a strong tradition of democratic values and ranks high in press freedom ratings.

The Impact of Risks

This section discusses the noticeable consequences of risks.

Understanding the Location

• It is now difficult to determine where one is located.

Lack of Freedom of Speech

• In some countries, there is no freedom of speech or free borders.

• Consensus is reached on the absence of independence and freedom in certain societies.

• Political parties that justify cruel crimes are in power.

Economic Impact

• The level of living conditions and well-being differs greatly between countries.

• Kazakhstan ranks 155th out of 180 countries in terms of press freedom.

Repressive Measures

• Criminal prosecution for defamation exists in some countries, leading to repression against journalists.

• Journalists face lawsuits and threats for their work.

Decriminalizing Defamation and its Impact in Kazakhstan

This section discusses the decriminalization of defamation in Kazakhstan and its implications for freedom of speech and press.

Decriminalization of Defamation in Kazakhstan

• In 1993, defamation was decriminalized and transferred to the Administrative Code.

• Political parties, including one led by the president, were involved in advocating for this change.

• High-profile defamation cases have had an impact on the economy and journalism in Kazakhstan.

• The editor-in-chief of a newspaper received a year of restriction for defamation in March 2019.

Differences in Defamation Laws

• The level of life quality and freedom differs between countries like Russia and Kazakhstan.

• Defamation laws vary across different countries, such as Mexico having more severe consequences compared to Kazakhstan.

Challenges Faced by Journalists

• Journalists face restrictions on freedom of speech, particularly in regions like Turkestan.

• A journalist from Turkistan was sentenced to two years and three months imprisonment for defamation.

• A former minister from Kiev district ranked eighth on the list for defamatory posts on Facebook.

Criminal Responsibility for Defamation

• Despite decriminalization, journalists still face threats of legal action for defamation.

• Article 130 on defamation still exists in the Criminal Code with potential penalties up to 125 days or imprisonment.

Unofficial Methods of Suppressing Freedom of Speech

• Unofficial methods include blocking social media platforms and messaging apps.

The Situation in Kazakhstan

This section discusses the political situation in Kazakhstan and the efforts to suppress freedom of speech.

Suppression of Freedom of Speech

• In 2018, there were attempts to limit independent media in Kazakhstan.

• Politicians used various methods, such as proxy servers and VPNs, to restrict access to information.

• The government aimed to control the media and limit digital literacy among the population.

• Friendly media outlets received support from the government, while critical ones faced persecution.

• The level of press freedom declined after President Nursultan Nazarbayev's resignation.

Authoritarian Control

• Authorities targeted conservative politicians and activists who criticized the government.

• Freedom of speech remained limited, with censorship and arrests being common.

• Independent media outlets faced obstacles and were often ignored by journalists.

• People were encouraged to support independent media, read their work, and share it with others.

Importance of Supporting Independent Media

This section emphasizes the significance of supporting independent media for a free society.

Role of Independent Media

• Independent media serves as a check on those in power and promotes transparency.

• It provides unbiased reporting and covers topics that may be neglected by mainstream outlets.

Actions for Support

• Readers should engage with independent media by reading their articles and sharing them with friends.

• It is important to raise awareness about journalists' work and their challenges they face.

Freedom of Speech in Kazakhstan

This section encourages people to express their opinions on freedom of speech in Kazakhstan.

Public Opinion

• People are invited to share their thoughts on freedom of speech in Kazakhstan through comments or discussions under the video.