On April 22, courts in Kazakhstan announced guilty verdicts in two separate criminal cases. Both defendants are well-known LGBTQ+ rights activists. Many people believe homophobia influenced how authorities handled these cases.

Zhanar Sekerbaeva is the cofounder of a feminist group called Feminita. She was found guilty of 'battery.' The court fined her 173,000 Tenge, which is about 380 US dollars.

The case started in November 2025. A group of people violently disrupted a gathering at a café. Sekerbaeva was there with colleagues and friends. After the incident, authorities detained and prosecuted her.

Critics say this is deeply unfair. They believe Sekerbaeva was the victim, not the attacker. Human rights organizations are very concerned about how police treated her.

The second case also involves an outspoken LGBTQ+ advocate. Like Sekerbaeva, this person has publicly supported the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people in Kazakhstan. Authorities also prosecuted this person on the same day.

Human Rights Watch reported on both cases. They say the timing and handling of the prosecutions raise serious red flags. The organization believes retaliation against LGBTQ+ activists may be a factor.

Kazakhstan does not legally recognize same-sex relationships. LGBTQ+ people in the country face frequent discrimination. Activists who speak out often face harassment and legal trouble.

These two cases show a worrying pattern. Authorities may be using the justice system to silence LGBTQ+ voices. This is a serious threat to free speech and human rights.

International human rights groups are calling for a fair review of both verdicts. They want Kazakhstan to stop targeting activists based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.

The situation in Kazakhstan reflects a broader problem in Central Asia. LGBTQ+ rights are rarely protected in the region. Activists continue to face danger simply for speaking up.

Both Sekerbaeva and the other defendant are expected to appeal their verdicts. Supporters around the world are watching these cases closely.