DECRIMINALIZATION OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: PERSPECTIVE OF EXPERTS AND PUBLIC OPINION IN KAZAKHSTAN

Abstract

This study aims to shed light on the decriminalization of domestic violence in Kazakhstan, specifically exploring the perspective of non-governmental experts and public opinion. Using a mixed-methods approach, 254 survey responses were collected from the residents of Astana, and seven interviews were conducted with experts. The results of the logistic regression analysis revealed that younger age respondents, females, not married and without children were more likely to support the measure that domestic violence should be criminalized. Our findings suggest that under decriminalization the absence of adequate punishment and protective tools for victims are critical issues since they may send the wrong signal to society and unleash the hands of the aggressors. Another issue with decriminalization is that it creates issues of impunity which later breeds violence. Although domestic violence was criminalized in Kazakhstan before 2017, it was not implemented in practice properly. Victims lacked the legal tools and resources to protect themselves. As claimed by the study respondents, a legal approach is necessary but not enough because the issue of domestic violence requires a multifaceted approach. Necessary steps may include social changes such as fighting against gender-based discrimination and gender inequality, changing the deeply-rooted patriarchal norms, and inculcating a culture of zero tolerance towards domestic violence. Further detailed recommendations based on the responses of experts and best practices for handling domestic violence around the world are provided.