Private detectives and human rights: balancing the interests of the client and society

The article examines the role and functions of private detectives in contemporary society and analyzes the risks of human rights violations associated with their activities. It is noted that in many countries the institution of private investigation is legally regulated, and private detectives are widely engaged in information gathering on behalf of clients, complementing the work of law enforcement agencies. At the same time, the lack of clear legislation may lead to abuses and violations of civil rights and freedoms, especially the right to privacy. The purpose of this study is to identify the risks to human rights in the activities of private investigators and to justify the need for normative regulation of their status in the Republic of Kazakhstan. A comparative analysis of foreign legal approaches to the regulation of private investigation has been conducted, along with an assessment of the current legal vacuum in Kazakhstan. The study reveals that, despite the recognition of the need to adopt a special law on private detectives, no such legislation exists in Kazakhstan to date. The discussion substantiates the necessity of establishing a legal framework to balance the interests of clients in obtaining information with the protection of public interests and human rights. The article proposes recommendations for the development of a law on private investigation activities, incorporating international standards, including licensing procedures, ethical norms, and accountability mechanisms, aimed at minimizing risks to human rights.