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Kazakhstan Enhances Legal Protections for Women and Children.

Kazakhstan Enhances Legal Protections for Women and Children.

April 16, 2024, Geneva – In a significant legislative move, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan has signed two pivotal laws aimed at fortifying the rights and safety of women and children across the nation. The laws titled “On Amendments and Additions to Certain Legislative Acts of the Republic of Kazakhstan Regarding the Protection of Women’s Rights and Children’s Safety” and “On Amendments and Additions to the Administrative Offenses Code of Kazakhstan Regarding the Protection of Women’s Rights and Children’s Safety” mark a substantial enhancement in protections.

Passed by the Kazakhstan Senate on April 11, after approval from the Mazhilis, the lower house of Parliament, on February 21, these laws introduce groundbreaking measures within the Commonwealth of Independent States region to shield women and children from violence and improve their overall safety.

Developed in collaboration with the Commissioner for Children’s Rights, members of Parliament, and various government agencies, the legislation was initiated following directives from President Tokayev. It aims to bolster family and child security, creating a robust support infrastructure for those in vulnerable situations and setting strict penalties for violence.

Newly criminalized offenses include the intentional infliction of minor health harm and battery, alongside enhanced penalties for causing moderate to severe health damage. The laws also address the promotion and assistance of suicide, and sexual harassment of minors, and toughen penalties for kidnapping and unlawful imprisonment of children.

For the first time, administrative responsibilities have been established to tackle bullying, including cyberbullying, and educational institutions are now mandated to report any illegal acts committed by or against minors to law enforcement authorities promptly. Additionally, the legislation ensures the protection of children under 16 on public transport, preventing their forcible removal for lack of fare payment.

Institutions such as a contact center dedicated to family issues and specialized family support centers for domestic violence victims have been established. Moreover, new principles have been set in marital and family legislation to reinforce the institution of the family and the upbringing of children aligned with moral and traditional values.

President Tokayev, who has been vocal about combating domestic violence, highlighted these issues during the third meeting of the National Kurultay in March this year. The newly enacted laws embody the President’s directives and Kazakhstan’s commitment to advancing social justice and protecting its citizens’ fundamental rights.

Источник: genevatimes.ch
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