Gay community in oskemen, kazakhstan

The government of Kazakhstan should reject this discriminatory and stigmatizing petition, whose proposal would violate human rights across the country. The law on petitions gives the ministry 40 working days to review the petition and a response is anticipated by August 5. Despite its international obligations , Kazakhstan does not include sexual orientation or gender identity as a ground for protection against discrimination in its laws, and authorities have in the past denied registration to nongovernmental organization engaged in LGBT rights activism. Harassment, discrimination, and the threat of violence already color the everyday lives of LGBT people in Kazakhstan.

LGBT rights in Kazakhstan have experienced gradual progress since the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Both male and female same-sex sexual activity was decriminalized in , with the age of consent equalized for both heterosexual and homosexual relationships. However, the situation for local LGBT community members remains challenging, as many continue to face discrimination and marginalization in their daily lives. While tourists may not face the same level of challenges as local LGBT individuals, it is essential for visitors to remain aware of the local context and always stay vigilant.

While homosexuality is not criminalized in the country, public perception remains mixed. The Times of Central Asia spoke with Arsen, a resident of Almaty who requested anonymity due to safety concerns , about the realities of being gay in Kazakhstan, the challenges he faces, and why, despite the difficulties, he chooses to stay there. However, even in this relatively accepting environment, complete openness remains a risk. But holding hands with another man on the street?

In Turkmenistan, print and digital information sources are controlled by the State. The Internet is restricted and strictly monitored by the authorities and journalists who share information online can be arrested in a trumped-up case for exercising their human right to free expression. In , there was a change of power in Turkmenistan. The former President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, who ruled for 15 years, passed power to his son Serdar Berdimuhamedov.