Kazakhstan’s President Signs Law Targeting Coercion into Marriage

President Qasym-Jomart Toqayev has signed a law amending the country’s Criminal, Criminal Procedure, and Penal Codes, along with legislation related to family law, investigative operations, and payment systems, Orda.kz reports.

The goal is to improve the effectiveness of the criminal justice system, enhance citizen protections, and toughen penalties for certain offenses. The law also aims to boost due process and improve enforcement of sentences.

One key change is the introduction of criminal liability for “coercion into marriage,” which now includes not only abduction but also threats, blackmail, or pressure.

The law applies equally to male and female victims.

A previous provision allowing perpetrators to avoid punishment by releasing the victim voluntarily has been repealed. The changes emphasize the protection of individual rights and dignity regardless of gender or age.

Original Author: Artyom Volkov