Kazakhstan’s Week: Top 10 Developments Shaping the Nation

Morgan Winslow

Published: January 31, 2026 4:07 AM ET

Kazakhstan has been making headlines with significant developments that are shaping the nation across various sectors. Here are the top ten recent events and initiatives making an impact.

Kazakhstan’s Week: Top 10 Developments Shaping the Nation

1. Full Roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics

Kazakhstan has announced its national team for the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. The team consists of 36 athletes competing in ten different sports.

2. Commitment to UN Volunteers Program

During the Volunteers Forum in Astana, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev emphasized the importance of Kazakhstan’s involvement in the United Nations Volunteers program. He highlighted the need for global cooperation in volunteer initiatives, aiming to provide citizens with unique experiences.

3. Constitutional Amendments Require Referendums

President Tokayev stated that any amendments to the Constitution should only be made through a referendum. He underscored the significance of the Constitution as a foundational document and its role in strengthening civil rights.

4. Pilot Testing of Robotaxis

A pilot project to test driverless vehicles is set to take place over the next three years in Astana and Almaty. Initial phases will focus on refining technology at testing grounds, with plans for gradual deployment in urban areas.

5. Potential Social Media Ban for Minors

The Kazakh government is considering restricting social media use for children under 14. The Education Ministry is reviewing options, including SIM card registration and measures to enhance digital literacy in schools.

6. Environmental Rehabilitation Efforts

Kazakhstan has reported the planting of saxaul trees on 672,000 hectares of the Aral Sea bed over four years. This initiative aims to combat desertification and improve the environment.

7. FC Kairat’s UEFA Champions League Struggles

FC Kairat narrowly lost 3-2 to Arsenal in a recent UEFA Champions League match. Despite the defeat, Kairat showed resilience and will prepare for the upcoming season starting in March.

8. Rybakina Reaches Career-High Ranking

Elena Rybakina has achieved a career-high ranking of world No. 3 in the WTA standings after her impressive performance in the Australian Open 2026. She climbed from fifth place, surpassing several competitors.

9. Anarbekov Among Top Goalkeepers

Kairat’s goalkeeper, Anarbekov, has made 36 saves in the UEFA Champions League, ranking third overall among goalkeepers. He trails only Nikita Haikin and Thibaut Courtois in the statistics.

10. Rising Star in Junior Tennis

Seventeen-year-old Zangar Nurlanuly has advanced to the semifinals of the junior singles draw at the Australian Open. This marks a significant milestone in his budding tennis career, following a similar achievement at the US Open last year.

These developments illustrate Kazakhstan’s ongoing commitment to sports, environmental efforts, and social policy initiatives, showcasing a nation focused on growth and improvement.