Is Kazakhstan entering a new political era or consolidating authoritarian rule under President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev?

In this episode of Talk Eastern Europe’s Deep Dive, Alexandra Karppi speaks with journalist and researcher Paolo Sorbello about Kazakhstan’s controversial constitutional referendum and what it could mean for the country’s future.

The discussion explores the restructuring of parliament, the return of the vice presidency, concerns over centralization of power, restrictions on civil society and media, and the broader geopolitical balancing act between Russia, China, Europe and the United States.

Paolo Sorbello is the English-language editor at Vlast.kz and has covered Central Asia for nearly two decades.

ABOUT THIS PODCAST

We publish twice weekly:

- Every Tuesday: Expert Interviews featuring deep dives withleading analysts, journalists, and scholars

- Every Friday: Weekly News Roundup with essential updatesand commentary on the latest developments

Read the New Eastern Europe Magazine 

Bimonthly publication with exclusive long-form analysis. →Become a member: https://neweasterneurope.eu/become-a-member-of-new-eastern-europe/

Support us on Patreon

Join our community for bonus content, early access,behind-the-scenes insights, and access to our exclusive WhatsApp group where we discuss the news in real-time. → Join the Talk Eastern Europe community: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneurope

Brief Eastern Europe Newsletter

Weekly briefing sent out every Monday with news updates,expert commentary, and our editorial picks - free to your inbox. → Subscribe: https://briefeasterneurope.eu/subscribe

Free Articles

Read our latest analysis at neweasterneurope.eu

FOLLOW US

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neweasterneuropemag/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewEasternEurope/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-eastern-europe/