Kazakhstan has been compared to Ethiopia in terms of bride kidnapping, as stated by the deputy of the Majilis Anas Bakkozhaev on March 20th. During discussions on amendments to combat human trafficking, Bakkozhaev raised concerns about the practice of bride kidnapping in Kazakhstan.
"We always strive to preserve our national traditions and values, and we have a tradition of bride kidnapping. Currently, we consider ourselves a civilized, developed country, however, when we look at statistics, Kazakhstan is on par with Ethiopia. How can this be?" - the deputy stated.
He requested clarification on whether such situations truly exist in Kazakhstan, urging to remove this "shameful statistic" if not the case. The minister acknowledged the relevance of the issue.
"You are right. In the 21st century, we always try to preserve our national traditions and customs. Bride kidnapping is an old tradition. But I cannot say that it is widespread today, that there are many such cases, there have been a few cases, we have conducted investigations. However, people's attitudes are changing, and you, deputies, are voicing on various platforms that this is a remnant of an old custom. Bride kidnapping is comparable to kidnapping a person, if propaganda is introduced, we are ready to consider this issue. But this is not widespread, the statistics are not like that, not in such large numbers. These are isolated incidents," - the minister stated.
In August 2023, the human rights ombudsman announced plans to tighten the penalties for bride kidnapping.
