This week, Kazakhstan moved closer to adopting a new law that would restrict what it calls LGBTI propaganda. The Senate has approved amendments that could soon be signed by President Kassym Jomart Tokayev. LGBTQIA+ organisations, including ILGA Europe, are urging him to reject the text, warning that it goes against basic rights guaranteed by the country’s own constitution.
The problem is not only about queer visibility. The proposed law uses vague language and broad definitions. In practice, it could make it illegal to talk positively about LGBTI lives, to offer psychological support, to teach inclusive education, to report in the media, or to share public health information. What is framed as protection opens the door to censorship.
LGBTI people are clearly targeted, but they are not the only ones at risk. Journalists, teachers, doctors, artists and civil society organisations could all face pressure or punishment. This kind of law affects freedom of expression as a whole. When speech is controlled, everyone loses space to breathe.
From Brussels, this situation may feel distant. Yet Europe has seen similar laws before, and their effects are well known. They isolate communities, legitimise hostility and create fear. They also send a message that some lives are less worthy of respect.
ILGA Europe is calling on international partners to respond firmly and to stand with LGBTI people in Kazakhstan. Solidarity can take many forms. Sharing reliable information, supporting human rights organisations, and listening to those directly affected already makes a difference.
Queer communities are connected beyond borders. What happens in Kazakhstan concerns us because dignity and freedom are not local issues. When rights are threatened somewhere, staying silent is never neutral.
You may also like
-
Ukraine’s Supreme Court Recognises a Gay Couple as a Family. What Does It Really Change?
For the first time in its history, Ukraine’s Supreme Court has recognised a same-sex couple
-
Sing It Queer: “Let Your Heart Be Heard” Brings 4,000 LGBTQI+ Voices to Brussels
From 24 to 28 June 2026, Brussels becomes the beating heart of Europe’s LGBTQI+ choir
-
T-Day 2026: A Full Day of Trans and Non-Binary Joy in Brussels
T-Day 2026 is coming to Brussels on Saturday 4 April, bringing together trans, non-binary and
-
Paradise City 2026: full line-up revealed and another green milestone for Belgium’s most sustainable festival
Paradise City Festival has unveiled the full line-up for its 2026 edition, returning to the
-
From one public sphere to many bubbles: what the “new media regime” means for queer voices
In an influential essay published by Le Grand Continent, Jean-Louis Missika and Henri Verdier describe
