.Kazakhstan has introduced criminal penalties for domestic violence. Kazakhstan: UN welcomes adoption of new law criminalizing domestic violence Human Rights
The UN commends Kazakhstan for passing a law protecting victims of domestic violence. “This is a step forward towards eradicating gender-based violence,” says UN Resident Coordinator in Kazakhstan Michaela Friberg-Story.
Women’s rights and children’s safety
On April 15, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a law on ensuring women’s rights and children’s safety. This was reported on the official website of the President of the Republic. The document is called “On introducing amendments and additions to the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan on administrative offenses on issues of ensuring the rights of women and the safety of children.”
According to the law, now for beatings, intentional infliction of lung , moderate and severe harm to health are subject to criminal liability. If violence and cruel treatment were directed at minors, then the possibility of reconciliation of the parties is excluded.
Broad public campaign
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The adoption of the law was preceded by a wide public campaign, caused, among other things, by a reaction to the alleged murder of his wife by a former high-ranking official. The UN News Service wrote about this high-profile case and tracked the debate on tightening the law in the Kazakh parliament.
A step towards ending gender-based violence
The new law, according to Michaela Friberg-Story, “marks a significant step towards eliminating all forms of gender-based violence. This legislative decision underscores Kazakhstan’s commitment to human rights, especially the protection of women, children and vulnerable groups from domestic violence.”
By introducing criminal liability for domestic violence, Kazakhstan makes it clear that such behavior is unacceptable, and those responsible will be held accountable according to the law, the UN Resident Coordinator emphasized.
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“This critical step not only promotes gender equality, but also ensures that survivors of domestic violence have access to justice and support services to rebuild their lives,” she said.
Continue efforts
UN through its representative in Kazakhstan encourages the country to continue its efforts to effectively implement and enforce this law, including raising awareness of domestic violence, training law enforcement and judicial officials, and establishing support mechanisms for survivors of violence. “This comprehensive approach is necessary to create a society in which all people can live without fear and violence in their own homes,” Friberg-Story said.
UN Support
She said the UN is ready to support Kazakhstan in its efforts to eradicate gender-based violence and promote a culture of respect, equality and dignity for all its citizens.