Geostrategic Media Political Commentary, Analysis, Security, Defense
Dr. Shehab Al-Makahleh
In a world where justice systems are evolving to meet the demands of increasingly interconnected societies, Kazakhstan emerges as a model of progress. Nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, the nation is undertaking bold and comprehensive reforms to ensure its judiciary is independent, transparent, and modern. These reforms not only serve the interests of its citizens but also offer valuable insights for nations striving to adapt their judicial systems to 21st-century complexities.
Independence as a Cornerstone
Judicial independence lies at the heart of Kazakhstan’s reform agenda. By insulating judges from political influence and ensuring their accountability only to the law, the country reinforces the principles of fairness and impartiality. Judges in Kazakhstan are prohibited from party membership, and the Union of Judges collaborates with esteemed international organisations like the UNDP, OSCE, and Council of Europe, reflecting a commitment to global best practices.
High-Level Endorsement and International Cooperation
In October 2024, during the IX Congress of Judges, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev engaged with leading figures such as Francesco Depasquale, President of CEPEJ, and Luis Palma, President of IACA. These discussions underscored Kazakhstan’s significant achievements in judicial reform, with international experts pledging continued collaboration to advance human rights and the efficiency of justice.
Institutional and Procedural Enhancements
To further safeguard judicial independence, the High Judicial Council has assumed authority over personnel matters, ensuring a transparent and merit-based selection process. Judicial financing reforms now allocate a minimum of 6.5% of the state apparatus budget to the judiciary, reducing its dependency on other branches of government. Furthermore, measures such as transferring approval of investigative measures against judges to the Prosecutor General illustrate the state’s commitment to eliminating external pressures on the judiciary.
Administrative Justice: A Game Changer
The introduction of administrative justice in 2021 has transformed judicial dynamics in Kazakhstan. By prioritising citizen rights in public administration disputes, the courts have seen a dramatic increase in rulings favoring individuals—from 15% under civil proceedings to over 60% in administrative cases. This shift signifies enhanced public trust in the judiciary and marks a critical step toward human rights protection.
Digital Innovations in the Judiciary
Kazakhstan’s judiciary is a global leader in adopting technology. The use of IT solutions, such as the “Judge’s E-Dossier” and digital analytics tools, has revolutionised court efficiency. Notably, Kazakhstan ranks 4th among 47 nations in judicial IT use, according to the European Commission for the Efficiency of Justice. Innovations like robotic assistants and smart judicial systems exemplify how technology can streamline processes while maintaining judicial integrity.
Continuous Development and Collaboration
Kazakhstan’s reforms extend beyond its borders, offering opportunities for international dialogue and cooperation. The upcoming establishment of cassation courts and the introduction of a “continuous cassation” system in 2025 aim to enhance judicial consistency and accountability. Such measures underscore the nation’s forward-thinking approach to justice.
A Model for the Future
Kazakhstan’s judicial reforms are a testament to its commitment to the rule of law, human rights, and transparent governance. As European nations and other global partners seek to promote stability and justice, Kazakhstan’s initiatives offer a valuable blueprint for fostering legal cooperation and shared progress.
By prioritising independence, leveraging technology, and embracing global best practices, Kazakhstan is not just transforming its judiciary—it is setting a new standard for justice in an interconnected world.
