Zhan Botanov has lived with a disability since childhood and knows everyday barriers first-hand. He also earned three higher education degrees, became a Master of Sport and went into business. For him, health limitations are not a reason to give up on personal goals.
Why this project began
Disputes with medical consultative commissions and medical-social assessment bodies, examinations, complaints and official replies became part of Zhan’s own journey. Over time, he accumulated more than documents: he learned how to frame questions, test arguments and persist in having his situation properly considered.
As a lawyer, he wanted to share that experience and help others. This became the idea behind Invalides.kz: a personal disability rights blog and a project supporting people with disabilities.
A first step towards public-interest work
On 28 April 2025, Zhan requested an explanation of the procedure for establishing a public association. The Ministry of Justice’s Committee for Registration Service and Organisation of Legal Services replied on 20 May 2025.
The authority explained the differences between local, regional and national associations, listed registration documents and stated that standard forms of association charters and meeting minutes were not provided.
This was a practical step towards understanding how to give the initiative an organisational structure. The letter explains registration procedures; it is not a certificate confirming that the organisation has been registered.
What Invalides.kz aims to do
The priority is to share real situations and help people understand their documents. The site covers both results achieved and cases still in progress.
- Share experience of appealing decisions and working with official responses.
- Examine the stories of people who need help defending their rights.
- Show outcomes that are supported by documents.
- Explain complex issues in plain language.
No one can promise that every complaint will solve a problem. But a clear position, supporting documents and consistent work help people make informed decisions about defending their interests.
Why the project is personal
Living with a disability does not remove the desire to study, work, play sport or make plans. Zhan’s achievements do not mean that everyone has an equally easy path. The right to a dignified life should not depend on how much energy a person has left to argue with the system.
That is why he is glad to share experience and help others. If you have a story to tell or need help preparing an appeal, get in touch. Remember: together we are stronger.