How a Soviet-era newspaper became Kazakhstan’s German cultural pillar by 2026
The Deutsche Allgemeine Zeitung (DAZ) marks six decades of publication in 2026. Founded in 1965, it began as a party newspaper before becoming a key voice for German-speaking communities in Kazakhstan. Its first edition, originally named Freundschaft, rolled off the press on January 1, 1966, with a team of over forty journalists, linguists, and translators behind it.
The newspaper’s origins trace back to Zelinograd, where Alexej Borisowitsch Schmeljow (Debolskij) assembled its founding team. As the first editor-in-chief, he brought together specialists from across the Soviet Union, including a notable group of female linguists known as the Karyatiden. These experts played a vital role in preserving German language and culture within the publication.
By the time of its launch, the DAZ had already gained traction, with circulation quickly climbing to 25,000 copies. Over the years, figures like Ivan Sartison and Eugen Hildebrand helped define its ethical and professional standards, while Herold Belger contributed to its intellectual direction. Though initially tied to the Communist Party of Kazakhstan, the paper evolved into a platform for the region’s German-speaking population. The DAZ’s early success rested on its diverse team, which included translators, editors, and linguists. Their collective work ensured the newspaper’s lasting influence, both as a cultural archive and a community resource.
From its beginnings as Freundschaft to its current form, the DAZ has maintained its role as a cultural bridge. The 60th anniversary in 2026 highlights its enduring presence in Kazakhstan’s media landscape. The contributions of its founding members—from linguists to editors—remain central to its legacy.
Read also:
- Executive from significant German automobile corporation advocates for a truthful assessment of transition toward electric vehicles
- Crisis in a neighboring nation: immediate cheese withdrawal at Rewe & Co, resulting in two fatalities.
- United Kingdom Christians Voice Opposition to Assisted Dying Legislation
- Democrats are subtly dismantling the Affordable Care Act. Here's the breakdown
