Scientific Trajectory of the Initiative Direction on the Topic
“Transformation of National Law within the Framework of Kazakhstan’s International Obligations”
Purpose:
To study the process of modernizing the national legal system in the context of fulfilling the international obligations of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The main objective of this direction is to identify the theoretical and practical aspects of the implementation and application of international treaty norms in national legislation. In addition, it aims to develop a deep understanding among students and young researchers regarding the interaction between international and national law, as well as to promote the harmonization of higher education programs with international standards. Within this objective, it is essential to study the influence of international agreements on national law and the compliance of constitutional legislation with international norms.
Plan:
The scientific trajectory is implemented at four academic levels:
- Bachelor’s degree: Analysis of examples of introducing international convention norms into Kazakhstani legislation during lectures and seminars. Demonstrating to students the relationship between international treaties and legal norms, for example, using conventions in the fields of human rights and criminal law. Determining topics for student research projects and independent work within the theme “Transformation of National Law within the Framework of Kazakhstan’s International Obligations.” Supervising students in preparing research papers, essays, and final projects on this topic. Engaging students in conferences and round tables, which contributes to discussing international law issues and strengthening their knowledge.
- Master’s degree: Conducting scientific seminars for master’s students on the topic “Transformation of National Law within the Framework of Kazakhstan’s International Obligations.” Discussing the content of new draft laws and international agreements. Directing master’s theses to study relevant issues related to international obligations, such as comparative research on new amendments in criminal legislation and corresponding international conventions. Organizing departmental or university-level scientific and practical conferences where master’s students present their academic achievements and participate in discussions.
- PhD (Doctoral studies): Involving doctoral students in preparing scientific projects on the topic “Transformation of National Law within the Framework of Kazakhstan’s International Obligations” and supervising their development. This enables them to propose new approaches to aligning Kazakhstan’s legislation with international norms. Planning participation of doctoral students in global and regional conferences and symposia, which allows them to gain international experience and apply it in their research. Preparing doctoral students to publish articles in authoritative international and national scientific journals, as well as to participate in grant and scholarship competitions.
- Faculty (Academic Staff): Faculty members of the Department of Criminal Law must prepare at least 1–2 scientific articles within the theme “Kazakhstan’s International Obligations and Transformation of National Law.” Holding departmental scientific seminars and round tables every six months together with faculty from other universities and students of all levels. These events provide a platform to discuss the practice of fulfilling international obligations. The possibility of inviting foreign scholars and representatives of state bodies for experience exchange is also considered.
Tasks:
- Conducting scientific and student conferences within the theme “Kazakhstan’s International Obligations and Transformation of National Law” to ensure discussion of relevant issues among faculty and students. For example, the main purpose of the student scientific-practical conference is to develop joint research and integrate innovative methods into the educational process. Once a year, organizing an interdisciplinary scientific-practical conference (between the specialties of criminal, constitutional, and international law) on the topic “Transformation of National Law within the Framework of Kazakhstan’s International Obligations.” Holding one student conference with the participation of students and master’s students, where research findings are presented jointly with scientific supervisors. Supporting the ideas of young researchers and ensuring the exchange of experience within this topic.
- Conducting an open lecture every semester during the 2025–2026 academic year within the theme “Kazakhstan’s International Obligations and Transformation of National Law.”
- Organizing round tables with the participation of the department head and faculty members. Conducting an open discussion on the topic “The Influence of International Obligations on the Improvement of Criminal Law and Other Branches of Law.” Ensuring the involvement of students, master’s students, and PhD doctoral candidates in discussions and exchange of opinions.
All the tasks and activities listed above are planned for the 2025–2026 academic year and will be systematically implemented by the faculty of the Department of Criminal Law. All faculty members actively participate in teaching, research, and the integration of issues related to the transformation of national law in the context of Kazakhstan’s international obligations.
PhD, Senior Lecturer Zhandos Gabitovich Ibraev (zhandos.ibrayev@ayu.edu.kz) has been appointed as the responsible instructor for the implementation of the scientific trajectory of the initiative direction on the topic “Transformation of National Law within the Framework of Kazakhstan’s International Obligations.”