Kazakhstan's new domestic violence law comes into force

Tengrinews.kz - On June 16, Kazakhstan's law aimed at ensuring the rights of women and the safety of children came into effect.

The Parliament of Kazakhstan adopted this law in April of the current year.

The law is aimed at improving the legal, social, institutional, and other foundations of the state's family policy, strengthening the protection of women's rights and children's safety, tightening administrative and criminal liability for violations of their safety, and preventing violence in the domestic sphere.

The law introduces life imprisonment for pedophilia and for the murder of a minor (a child under 14 years old). There will be no alternative punishment for rape of a child.

Additionally, there will be penalties for sexually harassing behavior towards children under 16 and for promoting suicide. The Administrative Code will include Article 127-2 "Harassment (bullying, cyberbullying) of a minor", which was not previously punishable in Kazakhstan.

Penalties will be introduced for intentionally causing minor harm to health, such as scratches, bruises, or sprains. Police will be able to investigate reports of domestic violence based on media or online platform notifications.

In cases of domestic violence, the court may prohibit the perpetrator from residing with the victim for up to 30 days to protect the victim.

Reconciliation between parties for crimes involving violence against minors is excluded.