Kazakhstan and Schengen - MFA responds to rumors about “refugees from Europe”

Tengrinews.kz — Rumors have surfaced in Kazakhstan about a potential influx of refugees from Europe following the simplification of the visa regime with the European Union. Foreign Minister Ermek Kosherbaev answers how justified these concerns are.

On the sidelines of the Senate, the minister noted that if citizens are concerned, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will endeavor to provide a comprehensive explanation via social media and other sources.

"I cannot see the connection between Schengen and refugees in Kazakhstan. I would understand if the discussion were about how Schengen Area countries are currently tightening border controls because the number of refugees is rising. Naturally, there is illegal migration. It is the right of these states; therefore, they naturally tighten controls. Accordingly, we have also adopted similar measures. We are also striving to reduce the scale and volume of illegal migration—to eradicate it completely," replied Ermek Kosherbaev.

Earlier, the United Nations (UN) published a report stating that as of early 2026, there were 118 million people worldwide who were forced to flee their homes due to persecution and conflict. This means that, according to data from the start of the year, one in every 70 people on Earth is a displaced person.