Kazakhstan Criminalizes Stalking With New Law

A new article of Kazakhstan’s Criminal Code introducing liability for stalking came into force on August 20, Orda.kz reports.

Article 115-1 defines stalking as the obsessive pursuit of a person against their will, without physical violence, but causing real harm, such as psychological pressure or restriction of movement.

The Prosecutor General’s Office explained that penalties can include a fine of up to 200 MCI, up to 200 hours of community service, or arrest for up to 50 days. If the actions involve threats, violence, blackmail, or interference with privacy, they will be prosecuted under more serious criminal articles.

The law, signed by the president on July 16 as part of the Law and Order concept, is intended to protect victims at an early stage before the situation escalates into greater danger. The prosecutor’s office clarified that stalking provisions do not apply to law enforcement officers carrying out their official duties.

On August 19, news surfaced that Kazakhstan also amended the criminal code regarding forced marriage.

In the past five years, 257 cases were opened, most of which were closed. Under the new rules, forced marriage is classified as a criminal offense punishable by up to ten years in prison, even if the victim was later released.

Original Author: Ruslan Loginov