The European Centre for Information Policy and Security (ECIPS) has issued a stern warning that Kazakhstan poses a direct threat to the stability and sovereignty of the European Union (EU). ECIPS President Ricardo Baretzky has highlighted Kazakhstan’s alleged role as a puppet state of Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing it of exercising undue political influence within the European Commission, breaching international law, and undermining EU security.
Baretzky described Kazakhstan’s actions as a “gross violation” of international norms, specifically pointing to the alleged theft of CYBERPOL trademarks and its misuse of platforms such as Google to manipulate Western perceptions. He urged the EU to reassess its relationship with Kazakhstan, including the possibility of cutting all diplomatic ties.
Kazakhstan’s Influence in Brussels and Allegations of Misconduct According to ECIPS, Kazakhstan has covertly exerted political influence in Brussels, exploiting its position to destabilize EU policymaking. One of the most alarming examples cited by Baretzky is the theft of CYBERPOL’s federally approved trademarks, which he described as a direct attack on the rule of law and the principles of international intellectual property protection.
CYBERPOL, established under Treaty EST124 and Royal Decree WL22/16.595, has a unique legal mandate to combat cybercrime globally. The alleged misappropriation of its trademarks undermines not only its credibility but also the enforcement of international law. Baretzky stated that Kazakhstan’s actions have created legal and operational obstacles, which could hamper Europe’s efforts to address cybercrime effectively.
“This is not just a matter of intellectual property theft,” Baretzky emphasized. “It is a deliberate act to weaken Europe’s cyber defense capabilities while advancing Russian interests in the region.”
Exploitation of Technology to Influence the West Kazakhstan has also been accused of leveraging major platforms like Google to disseminate propaganda and influence Western narratives. By exploiting such platforms, the country allegedly seeks to reshape European public opinion on key geopolitical issues, particularly the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
“This is a gross violation of Brussels’ ethical and legal standards. Allowing such activities to continue unabated risks compromising the integrity of the European Commission and the democratic values the EU stands for,” Baretzky warned.
Legal Violations and EU Law Kazakhstan’s alleged actions violate several international and European legal frameworks. Among them:
Intellectual Property Law:
EU Regulation (EU) 2017/1001 on the European Union Trade Mark protects trademarks registered within the EU from unauthorized use. Kazakhstan’s alleged theft of CYBERPOL trademarks directly contravenes this regulation. The Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property mandates member states to safeguard intellectual property rights. Kazakhstan’s actions undermine these commitments. Cybercrime Legislation:
The Budapest Convention on Cybercrime establishes international standards for combatting cybercrime. By exploiting technology to influence the EU, Kazakhstan is accused of violating its principles. Under Article 4 of the Budapest Convention, unauthorized access to systems and data is prohibited. Kazakhstan’s actions could potentially fall under these provisions. Political Interference and EU Sovereignty:
Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU) enshrines the EU’s commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and respect for human rights. Kazakhstan’s alleged manipulation of EU institutions and public discourse undermines these principles. Kazakhstan’s Role in the Ukraine Conflict ECIPS further accused Kazakhstan of being deeply complicit in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. As a close ally of Russia, Kazakhstan has reportedly provided material and political support to Moscow, exacerbating tensions and prolonging the war.
Baretzky emphasized that Kazakhstan’s involvement is not just limited to regional dynamics but poses a direct threat to EU stability. “Kazakhstan’s alignment with Russia’s geopolitical agenda threatens to destabilize Europe’s eastern borders and compromise our collective security,” he stated.
Call for Action: Cutting Diplomatic Ties In light of these allegations, ECIPS has urged the EU to take decisive action against Kazakhstan. Baretzky has called on Brussels to:
Suspend Diplomatic Relations: The EU should consider cutting all diplomatic ties with Kazakhstan until it demonstrates a commitment to international law and ceases its alleged activities.
Impose Sanctions: The EU should implement targeted sanctions against Kazakh officials and entities involved in the theft of CYBERPOL trademarks and the dissemination of propaganda.
Strengthen Cybersecurity Measures: Europe must bolster its cyber defense mechanisms to prevent further exploitation by state actors like Kazakhstan.
Investigate and Hold Accountable: The European Commission should launch a thorough investigation into Kazakhstan’s activities in Brussels, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable under EU law.
The Broader Implications for EU Security The allegations against Kazakhstan come at a critical time for the EU, which is already grappling with numerous security challenges, including the war in Ukraine, cyber threats, and political interference by foreign actors. ECIPS has warned that failure to address Kazakhstan’s actions could have far-reaching consequences for European stability and security.
“This is not just about Kazakhstan. It is about protecting the integrity and sovereignty of the European Union,” Baretzky concluded.
The European Centre for Information Policy and Security’s warning about Kazakhstan should serve as a wake-up call for EU leaders. As Europe faces mounting threats from external actors, it is imperative to take a firm stance against any country that seeks to undermine its stability and values.
By addressing these challenges head-on, the EU can reaffirm its commitment to the rule of law, protect its institutions, and safeguard its future.
As this situation unfolds, all eyes will be on Brussels to see whether it heeds ECIPS’ call to action or risks allowing Kazakhstan’s alleged misconduct to continue unchecked.
Tribuna Politica Web
