30 August 2025
By: Dr. Asadullah Karimov, Director General for South Africa and Kazakhstan Trading and Cultural Association, Pretoria, South Africa
This year marked three decades since the adoption of the Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan, a foundational document that has shaped the nation’s political, social, and economic trajectory since its independence. For a country that emerged in 1991 from the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the Constitution of 1995 provided both a legal framework and a vision for building a sovereign state. Thirty years on, Kazakhstan’s constitutional journey offers valuable insights into state-building, democratic development, and adaptation to a changing world.
From the outset, the Constitution established the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, equality before the law, and the protection of fundamental human rights. These principles were critical for a newly independent state navigating the uncertainties of the post-Soviet space. Over the years, Kazakhstan has built institutions, developed its legal system, and created a foundation for economic modernization.
One of the Constitution’s most significant achievements has been ensuring political stability during times of transition. Stability, in turn, enabled Kazakhstan to pursue economic reforms that transformed it into one of the leading economies of Central Asia. The document also affirmed the multiethnic character of the country, promoting interethnic harmony and positioning Kazakhstan as a platform for dialogue among cultures and religions.
At the same time, the Constitution has undergone several amendments to reflect the evolving priorities of the state and society. The constitutional referendum of 2022 marked an important stage in the country’s political development, redistributing powers from the presidency to parliament, strengthening local self-government, and enhancing mechanisms for human rights protection.
Beyond institutional adjustments, the Constitution has provided a basis for Kazakhstan’s international commitments. As a responsible member of the global community, the country has enshrined in its laws the respect for international norms and treaties, aligning its development with global standards of governance, human rights, and rule of law.
For the international community, Kazakhstan’s constitutional development is noteworthy. It shows how a young state has used constitutional reforms to maintain stability while gradually broadening political participation. It underscores the importance of institutional resilience in a region often marked by volatility. And perhaps most importantly, it illustrates the role of constitutional dialogue in shaping a nation’s future.
As Kazakhstan celebrates the 30th anniversary of its Constitution, it does so not only as a commemoration of the past but also as a reaffirmation of its commitment to continued reform. The Constitution remains both a guarantor of sovereignty and a living document that evolves alongside the aspirations of its people.
