Kazakhstan Criminalizes Stalking and Bride Theft in Legal Reform

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has enacted a new law introducing criminal liability for stalking and bride theft, marking a significant update to Kazakhstan’s criminal justice system.

The law comprises four sets of amendments designed to strengthen the country’s criminal and penal codes, with official publication expected shortly, The Caspian Post reports, citing Tajik media.

One of the law’s most notable features is the formal recognition of stalking-defined as the unlawful pursuit or unwanted contact with an individual that causes substantial harm but does not involve violence. Deputy Prosecutor General Asset Chindaliyev previously stated that stalking offenses will carry penalties including fines or detention for up to 90 days.

The legislation also introduces a distinct offense of coercion into marriage, commonly known as bride theft. Penalties for this crime range from fines and corrective labor to imprisonment for up to 10 years, depending on the offense’s severity.

Previously, such cases were prosecuted under kidnapping laws with sentences up to 15 years; however, individuals who voluntarily freed the abducted person were exempt from punishment unless other crimes were involved.

The parliamentary chambers approved the amendments in May and June 2025, reflecting growing attention to protecting personal rights and addressing social issues.