Forced Marriage in Kazakhstan: 15-Year-Old Girl's Escape Highlights Child Marriage Issue

A 15-year-old girl from the Karaganda region of Kazakhstan was recently forced into marriage with a 38-year-old man. This incident has sparked outrage and raised concerns about the prevalence of child marriage and the influence of religious extremism in the region. Five days after the wedding, the girl escaped and reported the incident to authorities, leading to the arrest of the suspect. The father of the girl is now seeking custody of all his children, fearing the influence of his wife, who is reportedly associated with a religious group. "We are deeply concerned about the well-being of this young girl," stated a local official. The incident highlights the need for stronger laws and social programs to protect children from forced marriage and harmful practices. The case is currently under investigation, and legal proceedings are underway. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced in combating child marriage and protecting vulnerable children.