The United Nations expressed gratitude to Kazakhstan for the adoption of a new law on the criminalization of domestic violence

The UN expresses its gratitude to Kazakhstan for the adoption of a law protecting victims of domestic violence. "This is a step forward towards the elimination of gender–based violence," said Michaela Friberg-Storey, UN Resident Coordinator in Kazakhstan.

On April 15, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a law on ensuring women's rights and child safety.

According to the Law, criminal liability is now provided for beatings, intentional infliction of light, medium and severe harm to health. If violence and ill-treatment were directed at minors, then the possibility of reconciliation of the parties is excluded.

The adoption of the law was preceded by a broad public campaign, caused, among other things, by the reaction to the alleged murder of his wife by a former high-ranking official.

The new law, according to Michaela Friberg-Storey, "marks a significant step towards the elimination of all forms of gender-based violence. This legislative decision underlines Kazakhstan's commitment to respect for human rights, especially the protection of women, children and vulnerable groups from domestic violence."

By criminalizing domestic violence, Kazakhstan makes it clear that such behavior is unacceptable, and the perpetrators will be brought to justice according to the law, the UN Permanent Coordinator stressed.

"This crucial 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.

The UN, through its representative in Kazakhstan, calls on the country to continue efforts to effectively implement and apply this law, including raising awareness of domestic violence, training law enforcement and judicial officials, as well as creating support mechanisms for survivors of violence. "Such an integrated approach is necessary to create a society in which all people can live without fear and violence in their own homes," Fryberg-Storey stressed.

According to her, the UN is ready to support Kazakhstan in its efforts to eliminate gender-based violence and promote a culture of respect, equality and dignity for all its citizens.

 

https://news.un.org/ru/story/2024/04/1451316