Kazakhstan Considers Criminal Charges for Influencers Promoting Illegal Gambling
Kazakhstan’s government is moving to impose criminal charges against influencers and media personalities actively promoting illegal online casinos. The Ministry of Culture and Sports, led by Minister Askhat Oralov, is spearheading this initiative, aiming to curb the growing problem of gambling addiction across the nation. Therefore, the proposed legislative changes signify a much stricter approach to combating illicit online gambling.
Currently, the legal framework in Kazakhstan only allows for administrative penalties, typically in the form of fines, for individuals caught promoting unauthorized gambling platforms. However, this has proven insufficient to deter high-profile individuals with large followings. Consequently, Minister Oralov has emphasized the urgent need to amend existing legislation, thereby allowing for the criminal prosecution of those who advertise illegal gambling services.
The primary targets of this crackdown are prominent figures, including Q-Pop stars, television hosts, and popular bloggers. These individuals frequently use their social media platforms, such as Instagram and TikTok, to advertise online casinos, betting shops, and sports betting sites. Often, they employ referral links and codes, directly benefiting from the recruitment of new players.
Such promotions, moreover, contribute significantly to gambling addiction, particularly among the younger population. Minister Oralov has highlighted the severe social consequences, describing the situation as a “social catastrophe” due to the increasing number of citizens, especially youth, falling victim to financial ruin and addiction. Thus, the government views these influencers as complicit in a major societal problem.
In a broader effort to combat illegal gambling, the Ministry of Culture and Sports is collaborating closely with law enforcement agencies and the Ministry of Internal Affairs. This unified approach also addresses the financial implications of illegal gambling, as considerable sums of money generated through these platforms often flow out of the country, thereby fueling illicit financial activities. Furthermore, the authorities have already taken action, blocking over 5,000 illegal gambling websites and approximately 400 applications within the past year alone. This demonstrates a clear commitment to dismantling the infrastructure of unauthorized online betting.
Indeed, public sentiment largely supports these proposed measures. Many citizens believe that holding influencers accountable through criminal charges will serve as a powerful deterrent. This would protect vulnerable individuals from predatory gambling promotions, ultimately fostering a healthier digital environment.