Statement on the situation in Kazakhstan by the OSCE Chairman-in-Office

WARSAW/VIENNA, 5 JANUARY 2022 - I am closely following recent developments in Kazakhstan.

I strongly believe that violence is never an appropriate response for resolving such tensions. This is why I call for a peaceful return to order and respect for democratic processes, while rights and freedoms, including freedom of assembly and freedom of expression, must be protected.

De-escalation of the situation and engaging in dialogue by all sides are the most important instruments for providing stability for the country. This is of great importance for the whole Central Asian region.

The OSCE is ready to assist and support Kazakhstan in continuing political reforms with full respect of the OSCE commitments, including through the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan.