The concept of democracy and freedom of the press: The Case of Kazakhstan

This thesis examines the relationship between the concepts of democracy and press freedom in the case of Kazakhstan. The thesis, which consists of two main parts, includes a comprehensive literature review of the concepts of democracy and press freedom and the analysis of Kazakhstan's democratic structure and media environment. The first part is dedicated to a detailed examination of the concepts of democracy and press freedom. The historical development of democracy, its basic principles and different forms of implementation are discussed in detail. Likewise, the concepts of press and press freedom are defined and the elements of press freedom, its limits and its place in international documents are emphasized. This chapter also examines the relationship between media and democracy. The second part deals with the democratic process and the development of the media environment in Kazakhstan. The level of democracy in Kazakhstan, election processes, parties and its position in international research were examined. The evolution of Kazakhstan media before the Soviet period, during the Soviet period and after independence is discussed in detail. Additionally, press organizations, press freedom, press law and pressures on the media in Kazakhstan were examined. The third chapter carries out the discourse analysis of news in Kazakhstan media. In this section, the methods used are explained and a discursive analysis of different news stories is made. In conclusion, this thesis represents a comprehensive study aimed at understanding the relationship between the concepts of democracy and press freedom in Kazakhstan. The findings of the thesis provide important recommendations for strengthening the democratic structure of Kazakhstan and supporting media freedom. Despite the current challenges regarding media freedom and democracy in Kazakhstan, there are also promising developments. Providing a freer and democratic media environment for Kazakhstanis will be an important step for the democratic development of the country. However, press freedom in Kazakhstan is still an issue full of uncertainties. Although there are some freedoms and independent media outlets, restrictions and oppression continue under the influence of the government. Further efforts are needed to improve the media environment in Kazakhstan as part of a broader process of democratic reform and to guarantee freedom of the press.