The United Nations system in Kyrgyzstan is concerned about a crime that resulted in a death of a victim, who was kidnapped for forced marriage. UNICEF Office in the Kyrgyz Republic stated.
«Child or forced marriages are a violation of fundamental human rights with long-term consequences, not only for immediate participants, but for the welfare of the whole society. Such practices as kidnapping of brides, forced marriage or ala-kachuu, are not related to the culture and traditions of Kyrgyzstan, but are a violation of the rights of vulnerable people,» the office of the organization noted.
«Kyrgyzstan has taken significant steps to improve the legislative framework, such as the ban on nikah (religious marriage) with minors. However, it is necessary to take additional measures to prevent these practices, bring the perpetrators to justice, and protect the victims,» the UN statement said.
According to the latest data, at least 13.8 percent of women under 24 were forced to marry in Kyrgyzstan.
UN agencies in Kyrgyzstan urge the country’s authorities to take all necessary measures to stop such practices and implement national legislation and international treaties, which the republic has joined.
