OSCE Chairperson concerned over deadly clashes in Kazakhstan, appeals for calm

VILNIUS, 16 December 2011 – OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Audronius Ažubalis expressed his concern at the violent clashes in the western Kazakhstan town of Zhanaozen today in which at least 10 people died and others, including several police officers, were injured, and appealed for calm.

“The number of confirmed deaths is very worrying. I urge Kazakhstan’s authorities to ensure that the investigation into these events is conducted transparently and with the full respect for human rights,” said Ažubalis.

“The freedom of peaceful assembly is a fundamental requirement for a democratic society. Any action to control crowds by law enforcement should be proportionate and in line with international human rights standards,” he added.

“I offer my condolences to the families of those who died and I urge all parties to resist further violence.”