Forced marriage legally banned in Kazakhstan

In Kazakhstan, the long-debated custom of "bride kidnapping" has been legally banned. This was reported by Zamin.uz.

Starting from September 16, 2025, forcing girls into marriage has been declared a crime in the country. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the new law is aimed at protecting the rights and freedoms of citizens.

According to the changes introduced to the legislation, such actions will now be punishable under the article "forcing into marriage." The guilty party will be subject to fines, corrective labor, community service, restriction of freedom, or imprisonment.

If forced marriage results in severe consequences, the punishment period can be extended from five to ten years. Additionally, some previously existing privileges have been revoked.

For example, a person who voluntarily releases a girl who was forcibly kidnapped could previously be exempt from criminal liability. Now, even in such cases, the offender will be held accountable before the law.

This change is of great importance in preventing marriages based on violence. The Ministry of Internal Affairs emphasizes that the new laws are especially aimed at protecting women and adolescents.

Forced marriage violates human rights and causes many social problems in society. At the same time, the law is not limited only to forcing into marriage but also includes measures against cybercrimes and financial fraud.

For instance, illegal access to bank accounts, cashing stolen money, or transferring funds for personal gain are considered crimes. These changes serve as an effective fight against fraud committed via the internet.

The custom of bride kidnapping has existed in Kazakhstan since ancient times and, although sometimes carried out with the consent of the youth, it has often been applied against the wishes of the girls. Currently, the state and social organizations are striving to completely prevent such cases.

Experts believe that despite its ancient roots, this custom is unacceptable for modern society. Thus, the new laws serve to protect human rights and put an end to violence in society.