Kazakhstan's 16-Hour Digital Marathon Blends Culture, Tech, and National Debate
Kazakhstan's Referendum 2026 online marathon brought together public discussion, technology, and culture over a 16-hour live broadcast. The event, held from 9:00 AM on March 15 to 1:00 AM the following day, served as a platform for debates on pressing national issues while showcasing the country's digital advancements in media production.
The marathon opened with a performance by 100 young musicians from the Altyn Dombyra school, playing Kurmanagasy's iconic Balbyraun composition. Later, the programme featured popular artists and the male choir of the National Guard's Song and Dance Ensemble, blending cultural heritage with contemporary entertainment.
Five main venues anchored the event: a central stage for expert panels, a talk show zone for live debates, and an innovation area highlighting AI and robotics. A holographic display also presented Kazakhstan's key achievements, offering viewers an immersive experience. Cutting-edge digital tools powered the marathon's seamless streaming across YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Telegram, and a dedicated channel, *Referendum-2026*. For the first time, journalists worked alongside domestic robotic systems, including the android *Temirbek*, which hosted segments and demonstrated new technologies. Discussions spanned urgent topics like artificial intelligence, esports, social inclusion, and national holidays. The marathon's mix of expert analysis, cultural performances, and tech demonstrations aimed to engage a wide audience in shaping the country's future.
The 16-hour broadcast combined live debates, artistic performances, and technological innovation to foster public engagement. By using advanced digital platforms and robotic assistance, the event set a new standard for interactive media coverage of national discussions.
