Saltanat Nukenova: A Story of Domestic Violence in Kazakhstan
Saltanat Nukenova's name became synonymous with a fight for justice in Kazakhstan. Her tragic death in November 2023, of which is currently charged her husband Kuandyk Bishimbayev, exposed the harsh reality of domestic violence and its devastating impact.
Saltanat Nukenova, source: newtimes.kz/
Little is publicly known about Saltanat Nukenova beyond her age, 31, and her marriage to Kuandyk Bishimbayev, the former Minister of Economy in Kazakhstan. However, it's understood that close friends and family described a pattern of abuse within the marriage.
Today, the trial of Kuandyk Bishimbayev continues, with the verdict still pending
Kuandyk Bishimbayev, accused of killing his wife, at his trial in Astana, Kazakhstan, April 12, 2024. (Kazakhstan Supreme Court Press Office)
Prior to Saltanat's death, Kazakhstan's legal framework regarding domestic violence was considered inadequate. While assault and battery were criminal offenses, domestic violence lacked a specific legal definition. This meant victims faced challenges in seeking protection and prosecution often relied on proving more severe physical injuries. This limited scope left many women vulnerable within their own homes.
The case has become a national conversation, highlighting the need for stricter legislation and support systems for victims of domestic violence. Saltanat's case has spurred calls for reform, aiming to provide better legal protection and resources for vulnerable women.
Timeline
November 9th, 2023: Reports allege that Saltanat suffered a brutal beating at the hands of her husband, Kuandyk Bishimbayev, in a private room at a restaurant he frequented.
Later on November 9th: Saltanat tragically died from her injuries, reportedly without receiving medical attention.
November 2023: Following Saltanat's death, Bishimbayev was arrested on suspicion of murder. Public outrage began to mount.
Key Moment: CCTV Footage Released: Security camera footage reportedly captured the assault, showing Bishimbayev dragging Saltanat by the hair and inflicting physical violence. This evidence became a pivotal point in the case.
April 2024: Bishimbayev initially denied the accusations but later admitted to assaulting Saltanat, claiming it was unintentional.
April 15th, 2024: A significant development occurred. In the wake of Saltanat's death, Kazakhstan's parliament approved a bill toughening domestic violence laws, a potential turning point in how such cases are addressed.
Activists hold a rally to support women's rights on International Women's Day in Almaty, Kazakhstan, March 8, 2023. © 2023 Pavel Mikheyev/Reuters
Landmark Legislation Passes
Following approval by both the Senate and the Mazhilis (Kazakhstan's lower house), President Tokayev signed the legislation on April 15th, making Kazakhstan the first country in the Commonwealth of Independent States to enact such comprehensive domestic violence protections.
This landmark law represents a collaborative effort involving the Commissioner for Children's Rights, parliamentarians, and various government agencies.
The main results are:
Broadened scope: The new law significantly expands the definition of domestic violence crimes. All violence against women and children, including acts causing light, medium, and severe physical harm, are now considered criminal offenses.
Mandatory Reporting: Police are now obligated to register and investigate all reported domestic violence incidents, even if the victim doesn't file a formal complaint. This removes a potential barrier for victims who may be hesitant to come forward.
Increased Penalties: The law toughens penalties for domestic violence offenses. The severity of punishment will depend on the specific acts and resulting harm. This aims to deter abusers and reflect the seriousness of the crime.
While the law introduces positive changes like a broader definition of domestic violence, mandatory reporting, and harsher penalties, it falls short in some key areas.
Most notably, the law doesn't explicitly classify domestic violence as a separate criminal offense. This can make prosecution and conviction more challenging.
While the new law isn't without potential challenges, it signifies a significant step forward for Kazakhstan in addressing domestic violence. The mandatory reporting and increased penalties represent a stronger legal framework to protect victims and hold abusers accountable.
The success of this law will hinge on its effective enforcement, development of victim support systems, and ongoing public education efforts.
Sources: https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/04/23/kazakhstan-new-law-protect-women-improved-incomplete
https://astanatimes.com/2024/04/kazakh-senate-approves-law-to-criminalize-domestic-violence/
https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/11/27/kazakhstan-womans-death-national-tragedy
https://www.gov.kz/uploads/2024/4/17/92f06d6ccda3c0e7a7c61e3c74603541_original.519990.pdf
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