The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Kazakhstan denied accreditation to 16 journalists from Azattyk Media. The outlet has filed a lawsuit.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan did not extend the accreditation of journalists from Azattyk Asia (part of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty's structure in Kazakhstan).

Initially, seven staff members were denied accreditation, and recently, it became known that another nine had been refused. As a result, 16 journalists have been deprived of the ability to work.

The decision will be challenged in court.

Key points to know:

•  Applications for extension were submitted well in advance, back in February 2025.
•  The MFA's response was delayed and lacked specific grounds.
•  In June, the ministry cited a violation of Article 30, Part 4 of the "Mass Media Law" and denied the extension.
•  RFE/RL considers the refusal illegal and has filed an administrative lawsuit.

Legal support for the journalists is provided by the "Media Qoldau" legal service of the Legal Media Center, in collaboration with the law firm "Tokayeva & Partners."

The MFA's actions violate the constitutional right to engage in professional activity, and the refusal process remains opaque and formal.

 It is important to note that since 2022, the MFA has repeatedly denied accreditation to Azattyk journalists without providing explanations. In the spring of 2024, after legal proceedings, the accreditation was reinstated. However, the situation is repeating itself again.