Drones in Kazakhstan: MP proposes tightening legislation

Tengrinews.kz – Kazakhstan has proposed tightening criminal liability for the illegal assembly and use of drones.
In a parliamentary inquiry addressed to the Prime Minister and the Minister of Defense, Mazhilis member Elnur Beisenbaev expressed concern about the potential threat posed by drones.

“There’s a risk these technologies could be used not just for peaceful purposes but as tools for criminals. Imagine a crowded show, concert, or football match where a drone, seemingly a toy, hovers overhead — but inside it hides danger. Evacuating thousands in such a situation would be nearly impossible, and the consequences could be irreversible,” said Beisenbaev.

He emphasized the urgent need to strengthen regulation of drone production, storage, and use, including licensing and tracking systems.

“While Kazakhstan requires registration for drones over 250 grams or those equipped with cameras or sensors, and imposes usage restrictions — in practice, these measures don’t work. Drones up to 15 kg can easily be bought in stores. We must admit that the current regulations no longer match the rapidly evolving reality,” he stated.

The lack of a Remote ID system, insufficient control over small drones, and no licensing requirements for manufacturers, he warned, create loopholes for illegal use. With the rise of artificial intelligence, drones could be programmed to carry out illegal activities without human involvement.

“We ask for immediate tightening of administrative and criminal responsibility for illegal drone assembly and use,” Beisenbaev concluded.

He also proposed:

Mandatory Remote ID for all drones over 250 grams,
Expanding flight log systems via required “black boxes” and data tracking,
Licensing drone manufacturers and requiring unique marking of key components.