Kazakhstan bars 16 journalists in latest blow to press freedom

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published 4 months ago |  IFJ Media Release

On July 15, Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied accreditation to 16 journalists from Radio Azzatyq, citing their previous work without official accreditation as the reason. The decision effectively bars them from continuing their journalistic duties and has sparked strong criticism from press freedom advocates.

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) condemned the move, calling it an attack on press freedom and a violation of journalists’ rights to practice their profession.

The issue began in February when Radio Azzatyq—Kazakhstan’s arm of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL)—submitted applications to renew the accreditations of seven journalists. According to Kazakh law, the foreign ministry is obligated to respond in writing within two months and provide a clear rationale. However, by April, the ministry had failed to act and instead extended the review period by another two months, citing the need for further investigation. Human Rights Watch has labeled the delay legally questionable.

On July 11, Radio Azzatyq filed an administrative lawsuit, accusing the ministry of violating both national legislation and the constitutional guarantee of free speech. The ministry declined to participate in the court-recommended conciliation process, and a hearing date is still pending.

This incident is not an isolated one. In both 2022 and 2024, Kazakh authorities withheld accreditation from journalists, though those decisions were eventually reversed due to legal action and international pressure.

Further signs of a shrinking media space in Kazakhstan include a 2024 incident where journalists were barred from Cabinet meetings without prior notice. In another high-profile case, journalist Daniyar Adilbekov was sentenced to four and a half years in prison in October 2024 for allegedly spreading false information via a Telegram post that accused an energy official of corruption.

Press freedom across Central Asia appears to be on the decline, with governments increasingly shutting down independent online media outlets without warning or explanation.

"The deliberate targeting of independent journalists by the Kazakh government is a clear attack on press freedom. It is imperative for journalists to be able to carry out their professional occupation without fear of repercussions or punishment. We call on Kazakh authorities to uphold the principles of a free press to a high standard,” said IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger.

Photo credit: Viktor Fedyunin/Kazinform