Domestic Violence in Kazakhstan: A Persistent Issue Despite Gradual Reforms

The issue of domestic violence in Kazakhstan has seen a surge in public debate following high-profile cases involving prominent figures. Analysts at Ranking.kz examined how the situation has evolved and the state's response to it. Despite signs of improvement, stubborn statistics suggest a long way to go in addressing the issue.

Key Takeaways:

• The number of murders in Kazakhstan has declined from 1,400 cases in 2010 to 449 in 2024, while the share of domestic murders has increased from 17% in 2018 to 23% in 2024.
• The decriminalization of domestic violence led to a significant increase in related crimes, with 74,300 cases registered under Article 73 of Kazakhstan's Administrative Code in 2024, up from 60,500 in 2010.
• A report by the Human Rights Commissioner criticized the previous administrative model, which punished victims and failed to prevent violence.
• 40-45% of domestic violence victims are men, and women who resort to killing abusive partners after years of suffering highlight the failure of state policies to provide adequate protection.
• Only 4,400 victims of domestic violence (6.5%) sought help from crisis centers in 2023, despite 67,500 cases reported that year.
• Surveys reflect widespread pessimism about progress on the issue, with 36.4% believing the situation remains the same, 17% saying it has worsened, and 8.7% saying it has significantly worsened.

Statistics:

• The number of murders in Kazakhstan declined from 1,400 cases in 2010 to 449 in 2024.
• The share of domestic murders increased from 17% in 2018 to 23% in 2024.
• 74,300 cases were registered under Article 73 in 2024, up from 60,500 in 2010.
• 40-45% of domestic violence victims are men.
• Only 4,400 victims of domestic violence (6.5%) sought help from crisis centers in 2023.

Sources:

• Committee on Legal Statistics
• Human Rights Commissioner
• Kazakhstan Institute for Public Development
• National Center for Human Rights