The transformational impact of Kazakhstan's constitutional reform on national development (on the occasion of the Constitution Day)
In light of the ongoing political processes in Thailand, discussions on potential political and constitutional reforms have taken center stage. The foundation of any nation's political system, a constitution, is pivotal in charting its course, both within and beyond its borders. This article delves into Kazakhstan's constitutional journey, presenting it as a model of gradual political transformation through constitutional reforms.
August 30 marked a significant milestone for Kazakhstan as it celebrated Constitution Day, a commemoration that carries added weight following the recent implementation of constitutional amendments. These changes, endorsed through a nationwide referendum in June of the preceding year, have instigated profound shifts that adhere to human rights standards and ushered in novel democratic principles. These reforms empower parliamentary and local governance while curtailing presidential powers and enhancing governmental accountability. Notably, the presidency is now a singular seven-year term without the right for reelection, which is exceptional in the Central Asian region.
Kazakhstan has amplified its commitment to safeguarding human rights and democracy. Bolstering the role of the Ombudsperson for Human Rights, Ombudsperson for Children's Rights, and Ombudsperson for Protecting People with Disabilities showcases the nation's dedication. A pivotal transformation lies in replacing the Constitutional Council with the Constitutional Court, further empowered to defend citizens' rights since January 1, 2023. Impressively, the Constitutional Court has already dealt with around 4,000 cases in a mere eight months since its establishment, in stark contrast to the Constitutional Council's 140 cases over a span of 27 years.
Kazakhstan's journey to a more just society includes the abolition of the death penalty, aligning with its commitment to the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, signed in 2021.
In general, Kazakhstan's constitution envisions respect for international law, a peaceful foreign policy, fostering cooperation, amicable relations among states, and the peaceful resolution of international conflicts. This path was set from the day of independence in 1991, with Kazakhstan's resolute nuclear disarmament efforts resulting in the removal of approximately 1400 nuclear warheads from its soil by 1995.
To implement the constitutional statement of peaceful collaboration and enhance security on the Asian continent, in 1992 Kazakhstan initiated the formation of a Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA). The recent CICA Summit in Astana, backed by member countries including Thailand, reflects this commitment. Also, the nation's chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) from July 5, 2023, to June 2024 reaffirms its dedication to bolstering security and stability, enhancing economic ties, and nurturing cooperation in the SCO. During the presidency, Kazakhstan intends to focus the joint efforts of the member states on strengthening capacity in matters of ensuring security and stability in the SCO space, deepening ties in the sphere of economy and trade, etc. One of the essential steps on this path will be the adoption of the Strategy for the Development of the SCO until 2035 and the Concept for Improving the Activities of the SCO at the SCO Summit in June 2024 in Kazakhstan.
At the same time, central to Kazakhstan's Constitution is respect for all faiths. Peace and harmony between all religions is one of the country's main priorities in the foreign vector. The VII Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, held in Astana in 2022, welcomed Pope Francis among 100 delegations from 50 countries. Notably, Kazakhstan pays respect and continuously extends invitations to Thai Buddhists to partake in the Congress and its secretariat.
A harmonious society, where every citizen feels valued and free irrespective of their faith, stands as a cornerstone of progress. The Constitution not only safeguards freedoms and political diversity but also paves the way for societal, economic, and political advancement.
By entrenching cherished values and guiding principles, the Constitution has molded Kazakhstan's national identity, propelling it towards stability and accomplishments. The impact of the 2022 constitutional amendments has indeed ushered Kazakhstan into a transformative era in a concise span.
