Kazakhstan Enhances Protections and Rights for Journalists with New Media Law

Overall, the new law on mass media in Kazakhstan represents a significant step forward in enhancing protections and expanding rights for journalists in the country. With the introduction of the concept of a “special status of a journalist” and the creation of a unified media platform to implement state information policy, journalists will have additional legal guarantees and protections, as well as expanded rights when it comes to accessing and distributing information.

By broadening the concept of mass media to include both traditional and online sources, the law recognizes the evolving landscape of journalism in the digital age. The establishment of a one-year statute of limitations for refuting false information and the streamlining of the accreditation process for journalists will help to ensure that journalists can work more efficiently and effectively.

The creation of social and professional councils to develop a Code of Ethics for Journalists and the introduction of grant funding for state information policy further demonstrate the government’s commitment to promoting responsible and ethical journalism in Kazakhstan.

With these new measures in place, journalists in Kazakhstan can look forward to greater protections, improved access to information, and a more supportive environment for their work.