Kazakhstan Blocks Social Media and Several Media Outlets

The authorities in Kazakhstan have blocked access to social media and several media outlets on May 9, coinciding with the events dedicated to Victory Day, due to attempts to organize marches and protests. According to reports from Корреспондент, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty was also among the blocked media outlets.

Users can no longer access messengers such as Telegram, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram, which were used by media to publish news while circumventing the blocks. There are also reports of mobile connectivity being disrupted.

Earlier, the banned movement “Democratic Choice of Kazakhstan” had announced intentions to hold protests in several cities on May 9. Following this, the General Prosecutor's Office released a statement urging people not to participate in the rallies.