The new president of the International Freedom of Expression Foundation "Әділ сөз" is journalist and media expert Nazira Darimbet. The decision was made on 17 July 2026 at the general meeting of founders and a meeting of the Foundation's Board of Trustees.
WHO IS LEADING THE FOUNDATION
According to a statement from the foundation, Nazira Darimbet has experience in independent journalism and has also been involved in implementing international projects in the field of media development and the protection of freedom of expression.
"Nazira Darimbet's professional experience, international connections and deep understanding of the modern challenges facing the media environment will allow her to successfully continue the foundation's mission and strengthen its role in protecting freedom of speech, supporting the journalistic community and developing media in Kazakhstan," the statement said.
WHAT NAZIRA DARIMBET SAID
Following her election, Nazira Darimbet thanked the founders and members of the Board of Trustees for their trust and described her new role as a great honour and responsibility.
According to her, journalists in Kazakhstan today face not only judicial and administrative pressure but also digital threats, including cyberattacks, blockages and online harassment. She stressed that the response to these challenges should be modern mechanisms for protecting journalists, developing international solidarity and uniting the professional community.
Nazira Darimbet also noted that the foundation's activities are aimed not only at protecting journalists but also at protecting freedom of speech in the country as a whole. According to her, the organisation intends to preserve existing achievements and develop them in light of modern challenges, based on the principles laid down by the founder and first head of the foundation, Tamara Kaleyeva.
WHAT AREAS OF WORK HAS THE FOUNDATION IDENTIFIED?
The foundation announced that in this new phase of development it will focus its work on promoting international standards in the field of freedom of speech and fulfilling Kazakhstan's international obligations, strengthening legal protection for journalists and independent editorial teams, and developing digital security tools and responses to cyberattacks.
Furthermore, among the priorities are supporting regional media, expanding international cooperation with organisations that protect freedom of speech, and developing digital services for providing rapid assistance to journalists.
CONTEXT
The International Freedom of Expression Foundation "Әділ сөз" is an independent, non-governmental human rights organisation founded in 1999. Its mission includes protecting freedom of speech and expression, providing legal support to journalists and mass media, monitoring violations of freedom of speech, improving media legislation and promoting the development of independent journalism in Kazakhstan.
Prior to the election of Nazira Darimbet, the foundation was headed by Karlygash Dzhankulova, who earlier submitted a statement relinquishing her powers as president of the organisation and withdrawing from its membership of founders. According to her, the decision is linked to her candidacy being put forward for election to the Kurultai. She explained that she made this decision to avoid a potential conflict of roles.
