Crossing Continents Stolen brides of Kazakhstan: the fightback
Dec 16, 2025
Khalida Azhigulova, a dedicated human rights lawyer, sheds light on the alarming issue of bride kidnapping in Kazakhstan. She reveals how recent legal changes aim to criminalize forced marriages, a significant victory after years of activism. The podcast features the harrowing stories of women like Gulbala, who endured years of trauma, and Klara, determined to change the narrative for future generations. Khalida emphasizes the need for societal change and education to challenge harmful traditions, advocating for women's rights across Central Asia.
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Law Makes Forced Marriage A Crime
- Kazakhstan criminalised forced marriage including kidnapping after decades of activism.
- Khalida Azhigulova says lack of prior punishment hid the scale of thousands of cases per year.
Clara's Kidnap At 16
- Clara was stolen at 16 after visiting relatives and felt she could not return home due to shame.
- Her parents accepted a bride price and she later said she was lucky her new family treated her well.
Dinara's Five Years After Abduction
- Dinara was snatched from a village street at 19 and forced to sign that she came willingly.
- She stayed five years, had three daughters, then was later expelled and sought refuge in a women's shelter.