Kazakhstan’s sports ministry raises concerns over religious influence

Kazakhstan’s sports federations will be required to help prevent extremism and terrorism due to the spread of religious movements among athletes, according to Vice Minister of Tourism and Sports Serik Zharasbayev.

A provision addressing extremism and terrorism prevention was included in the new law on physical culture and sports, which was adopted by the Senate, the upper house of Kazakhstan’s parliament, on March 27. Speaking to reporters at the parliament, Zharasbayev said the measure is necessary because religious movements have begun to emerge within the sports community.

«This provision has been introduced to combat these factors. The proposal was developed jointly with the National Security Committee. This is part of our work within the Anti-Terrorism Center headquarters operations, and we have outlined a roadmap through 2027,» he said.

Zharasbayev noted that, until now, sports federations had not addressed this issue.

«The time has come. Federations must recognize these risks, identify them and report findings to state authorities,» he stated.

According to Zharasbayev, the initiative is already underway. In April, experts from the Anti-Terrorism Center headquarters will visit regions across the country to raise awareness.

«By late April or early May, we will hold a meeting with all federations to explain these regulations in detail. For now, the focus is solely on prevention,» the vice minister added.

To support these efforts, religious scholars with experience in countering extremist movements will be involved.

When asked by journalists whether the issue is truly serious, Zharasbayev responded:

«We are not the only ones observing this trend. This issue has been raised at various levels, including recently at the National Kurultai in Burabay. Lawmakers have acknowledged that the problem has become evident, which is why we are introducing this provision at the legislative level.»