Kazakhstan Activists Demand Recognition for Soviet-Era Repression Victims

Almaty Activists Remember Victims of Repression and Famine On May 31st, 2025, a group of activists gathered in Almaty's Karagayly Park to commemorate the victims of political repression and famine during the Soviet era in Kazakhstan. The event, which was quietly observed by police, highlighted a persistent issue: the lack of official state acknowledgment and legal assessment of these historical tragedies. Galiya Abulkhatina, a prominent activist, was interviewed. She poignantly stated, "Here, they imprison anyone who says '[the people] should live a good life.' I don't know why? The famine, the confiscations of 1918, 1921, 1928—none of it has been assessed. What's not assessed keeps repeating." Her words underscore the activists' fear that without proper recognition, these injustices could be repeated. The demonstration served as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for historical justice and accountability in Kazakhstan. The activists' dedication to remembering these victims and advocating for recognition is a testament to their commitment to a more just future.