Kazakhstan intends to increase the number of female police officers in the country, stated Igor Lepesha, the Vice Minister of Internal Affairs of Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan Today reports.
Lepesha explained that currently, investigations into cases related to violence against women and children are being conducted by specialized female investigative groups.
According to him, it is planned to increase the staff of such female officers from 280 to 750 people across Kazakhstan. He noted that this experience has proven itself, as female victims of crimes feel more comfortable addressing female investigators.
The Vice Minister also informed that work is currently underway with akims (heads of local administrations) to implement this initiative, and they support it.
However, according to him, there are some disagreements within the government regarding the financing of additional staff units.
This initiative comes against the backdrop of recent changes in Kazakhstan's legislation. On April 15, 2024, Kazakh leader Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a law tightening responsibility for any manifestations of violence against women and children, as well as aimed at strengthening the institution of the family.
Earlier, the Kazakh Senate approved in the second reading a bill aimed at enhancing the protection of women's rights and child safety. The initiative is aimed at combating domestic violence against women and children.
Thus, the proposal to increase the number of female police officers specializing in investigating cases related to domestic violence is part of comprehensive measures undertaken by the authorities of Kazakhstan to prevent this threat.
However, the implementation of this plan faces certain bureaucratic complexities within the government.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
April 18, 2024