University Student Abruptly Taken for Military Service in Kazakhstan

Nazarbayev University Student Abruptly Conscripted: Family Claims Arbitrary Detention A disturbing incident has unfolded at Nazarbayev University in Kazakhstan. On June 4th, 2025, a graduating student from the Foundation program was unexpectedly taken into the army. His family alleges he was detained on the street and taken away without warning, his phone subsequently becoming unreachable. The family was left completely unaware of his whereabouts for some time. The student was eventually located, having been transferred to Kunaev and subsequently to Karaganda for mandatory service. According to the family, the student had received an offer for a bachelor's degree program. However, the military draft board refused to acknowledge this, citing the absence of his individual identification number (IIN) in the national student database. The family emphasizes that they are not against military service in principle; their concern lies with the perceived arbitrariness of the process and the disregard shown for the student's future. "They took him like a criminal," said a family member in a video posted online. "They took his phone and just took him away. We didn't even know where they took him." The incident highlights concerns about potential irregularities in the conscription process and raises questions about the rights of students. The family's appeal for a re-examination of the case underscores the need for transparency and due process in military recruitment. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring fair and just treatment of young people entering military service.