Kazakhstan Criminalizes Forced Marriages and Bride Kidnapping

Astana: Kazakhstan has officially outlawed forced marriages and the kidnapping of brides, declaring them criminal offenses under a new law.

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed the legislation on July 16, and it has now come into effect. The law criminalizes coercing women into marriage, persistent harassment, and abduction with the intent of forcing marriage.

According to police authorities, individuals found guilty of forcing someone into marriage could face up to 10 years in prison. Bride kidnapping has also been strictly banned.

The reform is part of broader amendments to Kazakhstan’s criminal code aimed at enhancing protections for vulnerable groups, particularly women and youth. The Interior Ministry stated that these changes are designed to further safeguard citizens’ rights and freedoms.

This marks the first time that forced marriage has been explicitly categorized as a criminal act in Kazakhstan. Penalties can range from fines of up to $14,500 and corrective labor to prison terms of up to 10 years in severe cases.