Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Culture and Information Aida Balaeva reported on the progress of implementing the constitutional reform at the Government session.

The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that the recent referendum became a historic event, convincingly demonstrating broad public support for the Head of State’s course toward modernizing the political system and strengthening the principles of justice. In particular, she noted that the constitutional amendments open a new stage in the country’s development aimed at enhancing justice, openness of power, and strengthening the role of civil society.

According to her, the main task of government agencies today is the systematic implementation of the reform, bringing legislation in line with the updated norms, and promoting the values of the Constitution.

The Minister reported on large-scale work to update sectoral legislation in the areas under her supervision. In particular, amendments are planned to be introduced to more than 20 legislative acts regulating issues of culture, information, archival affairs, youth and family policy. The proposed amendments are aimed at preserving historical and cultural heritage and developing civil society. In connection with the creation of the new institution — the People’s Council of Kazakhstan (Qazaqstannyń Halyq Keńesi) — efforts to strengthen public accord will be intensified.

In the mass media sphere, a more complete reflection of the principles of freedom of speech and the inadmissibility of censorship is planned, while simultaneously strengthening mechanisms to protect the honor and business reputation of citizens. Special attention is also being paid to state family policy: proposals to improve the Code “On Marriage and Family” are being developed jointly with government agencies. In matters of religious activity, the planned changes are aimed at ensuring a balance between freedom of religion and public safety while maintaining the secular nature of the state.

Separately, Aida Balaeva focused on updating the regulatory framework for the use of state symbols and supporting the volunteer movement. In particular, additional measures are being considered for recognizing volunteer activities when awarding the “Shapagat” medal, as well as providing benefits for admission to public service and universities. In addition, at the instruction of the Head of State, a draft Law “On Non-Governmental Organizations” has been developed, which enshrines the principles of their independence and accountability.

The Minister emphasized that the new Constitution confirms the status of Kazakhstan as a democratic and social state, where the priority is the development of human capital. In this regard, work will continue on improving the Social Code with an emphasis on employment development and professional training. It is also planned to modernize the social protection system for persons with disabilities and adapt labor legislation to new forms of employment, such as remote and platform work.

Regarding healthcare, Aida Balaeva noted the unchanged guaranteed right of citizens to health protection. At the same time, sources of funding for free medical care are being expanded: charitable organizations and large national companies will join the state budget in financing. The role of the Compulsory Social Health Insurance (OSMS) system is also being strengthened as the main tool for access to high-tech medical services. Corresponding amendments will be made to the Code “On the Health of the People and the Healthcare System.”

As part of the further implementation of the reform, the publication of a new edition of the Constitution will be ensured. She also noted the high effectiveness of the information campaign: to date, more than 1.17 million materials have been published, which contributed to broad public discussion of the reforms.

#Government session #Legislations #President's instruction

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