Abstract:
Background: Human rights violations within the criminal justice system represent a
pervasive problem. International human rights agreements and national laws clearly assert
the absolute protection of human rights. However, despite these strong legal principles, human
rights violations frequently occur within the criminal justice system. This article examines the
problem of human rights violations in the criminal justice system of Kazakhstan and the role
of the prosecutor's office in protecting human rights.
Methods: This study utilised documentary analysis and secondary data analysis
methodologies to conduct a detailed examination of legal acts, international agreements, and
policy documents It specifically reviewed documents including the Universal Declaration of
Human Rights (UDHR), the Constitutional Law “On the Prosecutor's Office”, the Concept of
Legal Policy of the Republic of Kazakhstan up to 2030, and human rights reports from
international bodies such as Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and Freedom
House. The study also analysed reports from the Ministry of Justice and the Commissioner
for Human Rights of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Results and conclusions: By analysing international human rights treaties, national
legislation, and reports from leading human rights organisations, the study exposes
significant discrepancies between legal mandates and actual practices. Despite Kazakhstan's
formal commitment to international human rights standards, it reveals systemic issues,
including instances of human rights abuses in criminal justice. The study highlights the
critical role of the prosecutor's office in human rights protection while also pointing out the challenges in effectively fulfilling these responsibilities. The findings stress the importance of
legislative reforms for enhancing the protection of human rights in criminal justice. The study
is particularly relevant for policymakers, human rights advocates, and scholars interested in
the intersection of law enforcement and human rights protections, offering insights that could
guide future improvements in criminal justice practices.
