Kazakhstan's Constitution Turns 30: Impact on the Generation That Grew Up Under Its Influence

In the heart of Kazakhstan, visionaries from various fields are discussing the nation's future, acknowledging the delicate balance between constitutional ideals and geopolitical realities.

Diyas Yerkinov, program author and editor at Atameken Business TV Channel, emphasises the importance of freedom of speech. He believes that all other rights can be just hung on the wall without it. Yerkinov also looks outward, imagining Kazakhstan's role in the world, participating actively in solving international challenges. He aspires for Kazakhstan to move beyond being just a supplier of raw resources, producing its own high-quality products that proudly carry the label "Made in Kazakhstan". Yerkinov hopes that by then, we will not only be seen as a mid-level power, but as a country that truly counts on the global stage.

Aizhan Rakhmanova, a PhD graduate in chemical engineering from Nazarbayev University, values the rights to education and freedom of speech. She describes being a citizen of Kazakhstan today as a delicate balance between belonging to a young and dynamic country that is moving forward and open to the world, while revering traditions. Rakhmanova dreams of a Kazakhstan with a strong economy, excellent education, and real trust between citizens and the government.

Yerkhan Bolatov, deputy director at Kokshetau-based Ualikhanov University, emphasises the secular nature of the Kazakhstan state as the most valuable aspect. He sees Kazakhstan entering the age of artificial intelligence while remaining rooted in timeless values. Bolatov wants Kazakhstan to remain a young state, keeping pace with the times, especially as the era of AI begins. He also emphasises openness and hospitality as key aspects of being a citizen of Kazakhstan, especially in a globalized world where young people actively travel.

Aigerim Kussaiynkyzy, a senior lecturer at Maqsut Narikbayev University, considers Article 14's prohibition of discrimination as essential and Article 1 as setting the tone for the entire legal order. She envisions Kazakhstan where constitutional promises move from aspiration to daily reality, where equality is not a topic of debate but a way of life. Kussaiynkyzy also notes that Article 35 teaches mutual respect and shared responsibility in exercising rights. She dreams of a "Just Kazakhstan" - where teachers and doctors are respected, corruption is not the norm, and criticism can be voiced without fear.

Bolatov wants to see a country where everyone is highly educated and specialized in their field, but also where we remain kind, open, and hospitable. He values the rights to education and freedom of speech, and believes that a strong economy, excellent education, and real trust between citizens and the government are crucial for Kazakhstan's future.

As these visionaries discuss Kazakhstan's future, they all agree on one thing: the nation's identity as a multiethnic and multi-confessional country means no one can assert their rights at the expense of others. They envision a Kazakhstan where everyone can live in harmony, respecting each other's rights and working together to build a better future for all.

Kazakhstan's Constitution Turns 30: Impact on the Generation That Grew Up Under Its Influence