MP Irina Smirnova has proposed that Kazakhstan adopt a foreign agent law, arguing that the country «must revise the rules of the game» with foreign donors, who, she claims, often disguise their interests under the pretense of promoting free media and protecting human rights.
Smirnova has prepared an inquiry addressed to Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, proposing a foreign agent law similar to those in Israel, China, Australia, the United States and France. She believes Kazakhstan should adopt this practice and require media outlets to disclose their sources of funding to readers and viewers.
Around 200 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Kazakhstan receive financial support from abroad, with 70% funded through various channels from the United States. These funds typically support projects related to freedom of speech, the rights and interests of targeted groups, democracy and civil society, liberal reforms, tolerance promotion and civic activism.
Within Kazakhstan, only 165 donors provide such financial support:
- 53 international organizations
- 31 foreign public organizations
- 81 Kazakhstani offices of foreign NGOs
«If foreign NGOs, which operate quite comfortably in Kazakhstan, are indeed pursuing their agenda, we may see the consequences of their influence — and we won’t be happy with them. It is time to reassess the status of some NGOs that have been operating in a gray zone for years and change the rules of the game with foreign donors, who mask their political interests behind the guise of supporting media, human rights and tolerance,» Smirnova said.
She also noted that the new U.S. administration wants to shut down Radio Free Europe and Voice of America, citing Radio Azattyk as an example of why such entities should be closely monitored.
«Anyone who visits the Azattyk website can see this with their own eyes. There isn’t a single article about a newly constructed school, a road project, implemented reforms or any achievements by Kazakhstani citizens. None of that — only criticism and negative information,» Smirnova said.
In 2022, the Ministry of Information stated that a foreign agent law would not be introduced in Kazakhstan. At the time, the ministry said the country would instead promote free media to enhance its competitiveness and popularity among audiences.
However, the Ministry of Finance does maintain a list of individuals receiving money from foreign governments and organizations. This list is expected to be updated by March 20.
