Penalties for bride theft and forced marriage have been tightened in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan has introduced changes in legislation regarding kidnapping and forced marriage. This was announced on September 16 on the website of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) of Kazakhstan.

Previously, if the abductor voluntarily released the abducted person, the offender could be released from criminal liability. However, now the criminal "in any case will be held accountable in accordance with the law."

In addition, article 125-1 ("Forced marriage") has now appeared in the Criminal Code of Kazakhstan. For actions of this nature, a criminal may be fined, correctional or community service, as well as restriction or imprisonment.

"These changes are aimed at preventing forced marriages and protecting vulnerable categories of citizens, primarily women and adolescents," the ministry said in a statement.