Women in Kyrgyzstan - Violence Against Women

Violence Against Women

The law specifically prohibits domestic violence and spousal abuse; however, violence against women remains a problem. Some estimates indicate domestic violence constitutes between 40 and 60 percent of all crimes committed against women. Many crimes against women are not reported due to psychological pressure, cultural traditions, and apathy of law enforcement officials. Penalties range from fines to 15 years' imprisonment (if abuse resulted in death). There were 300 reported crimes committed against women in 2007; the majority of those cases were sent to court. Several local NGOs provide services for victims of domestic violence, including legal, medical, and psychological assistance, a crisis hot line, shelters, and prevention programs. Organizations involved with battered women have also lobbied for new laws on domestic violence.

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