Kazakhstan Enacts Law Banning LGBT 'Propaganda' in Public, Media and Online

Officials say the measure targets public propaganda under exceptions allowed by international law.

Overview

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed the bill into law on Dec. 30, putting the restrictions into effect.
The statute prohibits dissemination of propaganda of pedophilia and non-traditional sexual orientation in public spaces, news media and the internet.
The act revises the Labour Code and 12 other laws, including those on child rights, advertising, mass media and online platforms.
The law is formally titled “On Amendments and Additions to Certain Legislative Acts of the Republic of Kazakhstan on Archival Affairs and Limiting the Distribution of Illegal Content.”
Deputy Justice Minister Botagoz Zhakselekova emphasized the focus on public messaging and cited international-law grounds for limits, while a Mazhilis deputy noted international rights groups had urged rejection.