During a session at the Majilis on April 22, 2024, Aida Balaeva, the Minister of Culture and Information, discussed the possibility of blocking the popular social media platform TikTok, citing the rise of fraudulent activities and dissemination of false information on social networks. Balaeva expressed concerns about the various types of harmful content present on social media, including the spread of narcotics, pornography, bullying, extremist, and religious materials.
She highlighted the global trend of countries being forced to block certain social networks due to the increase in illegal content online. In Kazakhstan, the decision to block TikTok will be based on the prevalence of unlawful content. Balaeva emphasized the need to address the issue, especially considering the platform's popularity among children.
Meanwhile, the Majilis deputies passed amendments to a bill related to gambling, lotteries, and administrative offenses. Deputy Elnur Beisenbayev announced that gambling activities on TikTok will be prohibited upon the law's adoption, with violators facing up to two years of imprisonment and hefty fines. The government aims to regulate online content to protect its citizens, particularly the youth, from harmful influences.
