Deputies of the Mazhilis, the lower house of Kazakhstan’s parliament, have introduced a draft law titled On Artificial Intelligence. The legislation proposes a complete ban on digital systems that make decisions without human intervention.
The bill was presented by one of its key developers, Mazhilis deputy Ekaterina Smyshlyayeva, who emphasized the need for a transparent and effective legal framework for integrating AI into Kazakhstan’s economy.
“President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has repeatedly highlighted the importance of AI development and issued relevant directives. During a recent visit to the Artificial Intelligence Development Center, he stressed the need for a balanced approach to AI regulation. On one hand, it is a matter of security; on the other, it is essential for development. Striking this balance is crucial,” Smyshlyayeva stated.
To address security concerns, the bill seeks to prohibit fully autonomous AI systems that operate without human oversight, aiming to reduce the risk of unintended consequences.
AI Classification and Regulation
The proposed legislation classifies AI systems by risk level:
- High-risk: AI systems that impact human life and health or are used in public administration will be subject to strict regulation.
- Medium-risk: These systems require oversight but with fewer restrictions.
- Low-risk: AI systems in this category can be developed without regulatory intervention.
The bill also calls for the creation of a National AI Platform, a state-led technological infrastructure for AI development, training, and testing.
Additionally, lawmakers propose restrictions on AI applications that assess individuals based on social, biometric, or behavioral characteristics. The bill also seeks to ban AI technologies designed to manipulate human behavior. Violations of these provisions would result in administrative penalties under a newly proposed amendment to the Code of Administrative Offenses.
Lawmaker Expresses Fear of AI
During the bill’s presentation, MP Anas Bakkozhayev openly admitted his concerns about artificial intelligence, stating that AI threatens national traditions and intellectual independence.
“I view AI with caution, sometimes even fear. This path leads to degradation. Humans should think and analyze for themselves. Otherwise, where are we headed? Are we merely following global AI trends? What about our traditions, culture, and intellectual capabilities? I fear AI,” Anas Bakkozhayev said.
He also criticized the use of AI by Kazakh officials, arguing that neural networks have become a tool for bureaucrats who prioritize their superiors’ opinions over independent thought. Furthermore, he raised concerns about AI chatbots, such as ChatGPT, potentially gathering sensitive data that could threaten national security.
Kazakhstan’s AI Landscape
As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, the Chinese robotics company AgiBot recently signed an agreement with Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry to establish a joint venture for AI-powered robotics in Kazakhstan’s industrial facilities.
However, the expansion of AI remains a contentious issue in Kazakhstan’s parliament. Last December, Smyshlyayeva’s colleague, MP Magerram Magerramov, proposed restricting the use of ChatGPT and other generative AI tools in schools, arguing that their overuse weakens students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
