Kazakhstan has adopted a law criminalizing domestic violence

The law was approved against the background of the case against former economy minister Bishimbayev, who is accused of killing his wife. It aims to strengthen the protection of the safety of women and children.

The amendments provide only life sentences for killing, raping or sexually assaulting minors, and include criminal liability for "sexual solicitation" of persons under the age of 16. Deprivation of liberty is provided for leading to and encouraging suicide, and fines are provided for promoting suicide.