Aqorda Clarifies Toqayev’s Remarks Concerning Women

The presidential press service has clarified specific remarks made by Qasym-Jomart Toqayev in his recent address to the nation, Orda.kz reports.

The head of state, speaking about the principle of “Law and order,” noted: “Unfortunately, among them (those who violate public order), there are women.”

The phrase sparked public debate, but the administration emphasized that the president’s intent had been misinterpreted.

After all, if women, who have long embodied beauty, fragility and harmony, have started getting involved in scandals, it means that the crisis of the culture of behavior has become truly serious. This is not a reproach, but a call to everyone, regardless of gender, age and origin, to return a respectful culture of communication to our society, abandoning rudeness and aggression. Cases of disrespect for each other, which we witness more and more often on the roads, in queues, at train stations and on planes, in other places, should not become part of our mentality. Therefore, the essence of the words spoken is to form ethics, a culture of relationships, showing a sense of tact and mutual respect. And this task is in no way placed only on women's shoulders. This is the task of our entire society, Aqorda explained.

On his initiative, a women’s quota was established in party lists, labor discrimination was abolished, the period for paying child care benefits was extended, a separate department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs for the protection of women from violence was created, and family support centers and a 111 contact center were opened in all regions,  Aqorda added.

They also highlighted the adoption of the “Saltanat Law,” which increased penalties for domestic violence.

Original Author: Artyom Volkov