The Genesis of Human Rights in Kazakhstan: from Traditional Law to Modern Challenges

Abstract

The article examines the historical development, comparative perspectives, and current challenges in the implementation of human rights in the Republic of Kazakhstan. It presents a historical and legal analysis of human rights in Kazakhstan (pre-Soviet, Soviet, and post-Soviet periods), comparing traditional Kazakh concepts of justice with Western European human rights philosophy. The study discusses contrast to modern constitutional norms and universal principles. The influence of European Enlightenment ideas and international standards on the evolution of human rights approaches in Kazakhstan is traced. The article is based on an examination of historical documents, constitutional provisions, international treaties, and scholarly sources. The findings emphasize the unique synthesis of universal human rights principles and national specifics in Kazakhstan, demonstrate significant progress in institutionalizing rights and freedoms, and identify persistent problems requiring balanced reforms to address them.