Now bride kidnappers may face up to 10 years in prison

A major legal development has occurred in Kazakhstan regarding the protection of women's rights. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a strict law against stalking and forced marriage, Tengrinews reported.

The new draft law aims to reform the country's criminal-executive system and includes changes in four key areas. The law is expected to be officially published soon and come into force.

The document introduces for the first time a definition of “stalking” — actions expressed in establishing contact or monitoring a person against their will, which cause significant harm, even if not associated with violence. Such actions are now officially punishable — by fine or up to 90 days of administrative arrest.

In addition, the law also tightens responsibility for abducting brides for the purpose of forced marriage. According to the law, this is now considered a separate crime — named “Forced marriage” in the Criminal Code. Depending on the severity of the crime, punishments include: financial fines, corrective labor, restriction of freedom, or imprisonment for up to 10 years.

Previously, such cases were qualified as “kidnapping”, which allowed up to 15 years of imprisonment. However, if the woman was released voluntarily and no other crimes were committed, the perpetrator could be freed from responsibility. The new law closes this legal loophole.

President Tokayev personally addressed this issue at a National Assembly meeting. He strongly criticized those who try to justify bride kidnapping with traditions:

“Some people try to legalize such archaic practices as bride kidnapping under the guise of national customs. This cannot be justified. In our society, human dignity, rights, and freedoms must remain supreme,” said Tokayev.

This innovation marks an important step toward securing women's rights in Kazakhstan, protecting them from coercion and harassment. Civil society and human rights organizations welcome these changes. Now, every woman can feel protected by the law. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!