Constitutional Court of Kazakhstan Hearing on Internet Shutdowns to Be Held on February 27, 2026

The Constitutional Court of the Republic of Kazakhstan will examine the constitutionality of paragraphs 1–2 of Article 41‑1 of the Law “On Communications” (July 5, 2004) in the case against Internet shutdowns tomorrow, February 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. We had previously received the official notification.

The campaign’s goal is to recognize that provisions in the Law “On Communications” allowing security agencies to suspend communication networks and Internet access hinder the exercise of rights guaranteed by Article 20(1–2) of the Constitution (freedom of speech, the right to freely receive and disseminate information not prohibited by law).

Earlier, we submitted expert opinions (Amicus Curiae) from international human rights organizations to the Court, emphasizing that:

“International law recognizes that Internet shutdowns ordered by state authorities affect numerous rights guaranteed by the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, including the right to privacy of correspondence, freedom of thought, conscience and religion, freedom of opinion and expression, freedom to seek and receive information and ideas, and freedoms of peaceful assembly and association (Articles 17–19, 21–22 of the Covenant).”