The LGBT propaganda ban in Kazakhstan has been signed into law by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The law introduces new restrictions on public information, media, online content, and communication related to sexual orientation and gender identity.
On 30 December 2025, the President signed the law “On Amendments and Additions to Certain Legislative Acts of the Republic of Kazakhstan on Archival Affairs and the Restriction of the Dissemination of Unlawful Content”.
The law includes provisions that ban so-called “propaganda of non-traditional sexual orientation”. Civil society organizations and legal experts have criticized this concept for its broad and vague wording.
LGBT propaganda ban signed into law
The adopted law changes several legislative acts related to information policy, media, public communication, advertising, education, online platforms, and the protection of children from harmful information.
These changes create a new legal environment for public discussion of LGBTQIA+ issues. They may affect journalists, educators, researchers, cultural workers, lawyers, activists, and civil society organizations.
At this stage, the practical scope of the law remains unclear. Therefore, implementation will depend on secondary regulations, administrative practice, and early enforcement cases.
Key provisions of the law
The law introduces restrictions on the dissemination of information described as “propaganda of non-traditional sexual orientation”.
This wording may affect media publications, educational materials, online content, public campaigns, legal information, and human rights analysis.
The law also creates risks for access to information. People may avoid discussing LGBTQIA+ rights, health, safety, education, or equality because they fear legal consequences.
Concerns about vague wording
REQUEST is concerned that vague definitions may lead to broad interpretation.
State bodies may interpret the law differently. As a result, people and organizations may not understand which publications or statements could create legal risks.
This uncertainty can lead to censorship and self-censorship. It can also reduce public access to reliable information about rights, safety, health, and protection.
Entry into force and enforcement risks
The law will enter into force two months after its official publication.
During this period, state institutions may prepare regulatory and enforcement mechanisms. These mechanisms may shape how the LGBT propaganda ban works in practice.
Therefore, civil society needs transparency, legal analysis, and close monitoring of the implementation process.
REQUEST’s response
REQUEST will continue to monitor how the law affects LGBTQIA+ people, civil society organizations, media, educators, and human rights defenders.
We will document possible cases of misuse or disproportionate enforcement. We will also use available legal and human rights mechanisms to protect fundamental freedoms.
REQUEST believes that human rights information, legal analysis, education, and advocacy must not be treated as “propaganda”.