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Women's Rights

Montenegro Will Not Extradite NeMolchi Founder to Kazakhstan

The authorities in Montenegro have decided that the director of Kazakhstan’s NeMolchi.kz (Don’t be silent) foundation, Dina Smailova (Tansari), will not be deported to Kazakhstan, where she faces charges of knowingly disseminating false information, violation of privacy, and fraud. Smailova’s Legal Battles and Exile Since 2017, Smailova has faced a plethora of criminal cases. In 2021, she left Kazakhstan and relocated to Georgia. After she departed, Almaty police launched new inquiries against her. In June 2022, Smailova said that these investigations were opened “because I criticize the activities of the Almaty police, because I demand the resignation of the leadership, because I do not recognize the police who torture our people in their dungeons!” In early 2024, Smailova left Georgia and requested asylum in the European Union, and in April of that year, she was detained in Montenegro based on an Interpol warrant from Kazakhstan’s Interior Ministry. Kazakhstan and Montenegro do not have an extradition agreement, so Montenegrin officials needed time to consider the Kazakh authorities’ request to repatriate Smailova to Kazakhstan. Smailova was therefore quickly freed from custody but remained in Montenegro, and in July, she and her husband, Almat Mukhamedzhanov, were granted international protection status in the country, signaling that she was unlikely to be extradited. On September 4, Montenegro’s Supreme Court ruled to deny Kazakhstan’s request for her extradition, and on September 12, Smailova wrote on Facebook that the decision had come into force. NeMolchi.kz is an organization that defends the rights of women and children in Kazakhstan and reports on incidents of domestic violence, a problem that has become more visible in the country in recent years. Violence against women has become a priority issue for the Kazakh government, especially since the high-profile murder of a young woman named Saltanat Nukenova in 2023. The Nukenova Case and Public Outcry Saltanat Nukenova was killed in an Astana restaurant by her husband, Kuandyk Bishimbayev, a former Kazakh Minister of National Economy. Bishimbayev was convicted of taking bribes and, in March 2018, was sentenced to ten years in prison. His term was later reduced to four years, and he was eventually released early in December 2020. On November 9, 2023, Bishimbayev and Nukenova went to an Astana restaurant where they had a private room reserved. Bishimbayev and Nukenova quarreled, following which Bishimbayev severely beat his wife, then waited several hours while she lay dying from head injuries he inflicted on her before calling for medical help. Later that same month, it was reported that the police in East Kazakhstan Province had started investigating Smailova for fraud. Police questioned “hundreds” of people who had donated to NeMolchi.kz, on the suspicion that Smailova had used some of the donated money for personal purchases. Before the end of 2023, formal charges were lodged against Smailova, and Kazakhstan put out an international warrant for her arrest. Bishimbayev’s trial was televised and drew a huge audience in Kazakhstan. He was found guilty and sentenced to 24 years in prison. The details of the beating of...

Crime

Kazakh Businessman Almaz Zaripov Detained in Bishkek

The State Committee for National Security of Kyrgyzstan (SCNS) has confirmed the detention of Kazakh citizen Almaz Zaripov, president of the Agrarian and Industrial Union of Kazakhstan, in Bishkek. The arrest, which occurred at the end of August, followed a public appeal by Zaripov’s wife to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, which garnered widespread attention on social media. According to Kyrgyz authorities, the case stems from a March 2025 complaint by two Bishkek residents. The complainants allege that a 51-year-old man offered them a “lucrative business” opportunity involving grain imports from Kazakhstan. After transferring $2.5 million, the alleged supplier ceased communication and disappeared. Zaripov's wife claims the charges are fabricated and alleges the real motive is to seize the company’s assets and extort a large sum of money. The SCNS rejected these accusations, stating that a criminal case was opened based on a Kyrgyz citizen’s complaint of embezzlement. “During the investigation, this fact was confirmed. The citizen of the Republic of Kazakhstan was detained, charged, and the court imposed a preventive measure in the form of detention for the duration of the investigation. The investigation is being conducted in full compliance with the legislation of the Kyrgyz Republic,” the agency said in a statement. The committee added that Zaripov has pleaded guilty and has begun compensating the victims. Authorities are considering whether to revise the conditions of his detention. This is not the first time a Kazakh national has faced legal trouble in Kyrgyzstan. Earlier, businessman Kamalutin Khalikov was placed on a wanted list on charges of financing the criminal group led by Kamchybek Asanbek, also known as Kamchy Kolbayev, who was killed during a police operation on October 4, 2023.

Corruption

Prestige or Coercion? Turkmen Police Questioned Over Costly Leader Watches

Turkmenistan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs has launched an internal investigation after reports emerged that police officers were purchasing high-priced watches featuring images of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, his father and former president Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and state symbols. According to an internal directive sent to regional departments, police personnel must submit written explanations detailing whether they bought the watches voluntarily or under pressure from superiors. The ministry also announced inspections of police uniforms to ensure compliance with official standards. The directive reminds officers that wearing rings, medallions, or signet rings, aside from wedding bands, is strictly prohibited while on duty. Internal security units have been tasked with monitoring adherence. Prestige or Coercion? The Times of Central Asia previously reported that such watches have become a status symbol within law enforcement circles. Manufactured by Sagat Turkmenistan, the watches feature silver cases with gold plating, gemstone embellishments, and insignias of state agencies. They retail for between 3,000 and 5,000 TMT ($870-1,450). However, many residents allege the watches are frequently used as informal bribes. “If you are told that a criminal case will be brought against you, it means you need to buy such a watch and go to the investigator. This does not mean that the case will be closed. But it’s the first installment,” said a resident of Bayramali with experience of dealing with the police. Watches with white straps are seen as particularly prestigious. Sources say that investigators often request the strap be replaced, at the giver’s expense, to enhance the watch’s appearance. Mandatory Purchases for Civil Servants This phenomenon extends beyond law enforcement. In May 2024, The Times of Central Asia reported that heads of state institutions in the Balkan region were required to purchase similar watches. Prices ranged from 1,500 to 3,000 TMT ($435-870 at the official rate; $75-150 on the black market). High-end models featured portraits of both Berdimuhamedovs, each in differently colored ties, alongside the Turkmen flag and map. Less expensive variants depicted only the president, or a simplified combination of national symbols. The purchase requirement applied to all budget-funded institutions, including schools, hospitals, and transportation agencies. Different “rates” were imposed based on the official’s seniority: lower-level managers paid 1,500 manats, while higher-level administrators paid up to 3,000. The tradition of producing watches featuring national leaders dates back to the rule of Saparmurat Niyazov, under whom such accessories were distributed to schoolchildren and state employees. Serdar Berdimuhamedov has continued this legacy with his own line of commemorative timepieces.

Police

Twelve Years On, Tajikistan’s Police Reform Struggles to Deliver Real Change

Launched in 2013, Tajikistan’s police reform aimed to modernize law enforcement, increase transparency, and build public trust. Twelve years later, while some progress is acknowledged, experts say the main objectives remain largely unfulfilled. Signs of Progress Sadriddin Saidov, chairman of the Sughd regional branch of the Bar Association, notes improved accessibility to law enforcement. “Now citizens can file complaints through hotlines or electronically, which means people can reach out at any time,” he said. In remote areas, mobile police units, minibuses outfitted as service offices, now provide legal consultations and assistance. Gulchehra Kholmatova, Head of the Legal Assistance Group of the Civil Society Coalition against Torture and Impunity in Tajikistan, said there is increasing dialogue between civil society and the state. NGOs are more frequently invited to discuss human rights issues and, in some cases, are granted access to detention centers. Recent legislative changes have guaranteed detainees access to legal counsel and introduced safeguards against abuse. With international support, Tajik police officers now undergo human rights training aimed at preventing torture. Human rights advocate Larisa Aleksandrova cites specific gains in addressing domestic violence. The number of inspectors focused on preventing family violence has risen from 14 to 22, improving the registration and response to complaints. “The number of appeals to police regarding domestic violence has risen, and case registration has improved,” she said. Where the Reform Falls Short Yet many argue these reforms are more cosmetic than structural. Lawyer Bakhtiyor Nasrulloev contends the process resembles “degradation” rather than progress. “Access to local police stations has become more complicated due to multi-level controls and guards. This creates the impression that the police are distancing themselves from society, not moving closer,” he said. Nasrulloev criticized the reform as superficial, focusing on new uniforms and rebranding without addressing systemic issues. Kholmatova notes that public oversight of detention facilities remains weak, and torture cases often go unpunished. Aleksandrova adds that the reform slogan, “My police protect me,” has yet to become reality. “Nothing changes fundamentally. Even those who want to work honestly are constrained by a rigid system of control and subordination,” she said. Experts point to lingering Soviet-era practices, where success is measured by the number of cases opened rather than investigative quality. For Saidov, a key obstacle is low public engagement. “Reforms will succeed only if citizens actively express their opinions and proposals,” he said. Aleksandrova also highlights insufficient gender sensitivity in police responses to discrimination and domestic violence. What Experts Propose To move forward, Nasrulloev has called for a major restructuring that would separate investigative bodies from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and remove them from prosecutorial control. He also suggested making district inspectors and patrol officers accountable to local governments to better address community needs. He recommended merging overlapping departments, including criminal investigations, drug control, and organized crime units, to reduce bureaucracy and increase efficiency. Kholmatova highlighted the need for independent monitoring, greater transparency, and training that follows international human rights standards. Aleksandrova proposed mandatory video recordings of interrogations and the...

Domestic Violence

Tajikistan Launches Domestic Violence Hotline

Tajikistan’s Committee on Women and Family Affairs has launched a dedicated hotline for victims of domestic violence, marking a significant step in regional efforts to address gender-based violence. According to Asia-Plus, the contact center aims to expand access to support services and raise public awareness. In recent days, the Committee informed citizens via SMS that anyone experiencing domestic abuse can contact the helpline at +992 (37) 221-30-40. The center operates Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 17:00, and Saturdays from 8:00 to 12:00. Both women and men can receive free legal advice and psychological support on issues such as domestic abuse, housing, alimony, and divorce. Officials said the hotline builds on earlier in-person consultations and has already been operational for over two months. It was established under the framework of Tajikistan’s law “On the Prevention of Domestic Violence” and a corresponding state program. Its core mission is to support survivors and help prevent future cases of abuse. (A previous hotline, number 1313, was operated by the Committee but was discontinued for unspecified reasons.) Regional Momentum In neighboring Uzbekistan, the government approved an Administrative Regulation in June 2024 to enhance services for women and minors affected by domestic violence. According to the Justice Ministry’s press service, the regulation expands access to assistance through multiple channels, including the nationwide network of Inson social service centers, the Ministry of Internal Affairs’ 24/7 police hotline (102), emergency dispatcher (112), and the short “trust” number (1146). Citizens can also report abuse to neighborhood police inspectors or local social workers. Authorities are now legally required to respond within 24 hours of receiving a complaint. Protective measures include issuing restraining orders, relocating survivors and their children to shelters, and conducting immediate assessments by social workers and police. The government also plans to establish crisis centers in every province by the end of 2024, providing safe refuge and access to medical care. Kazakhstan’s Landmark Reform Kazakhstan has also taken decisive steps. On April 15, 2024, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a landmark piece of legislation, popularly known as Saltanat’s Law, to strengthen protections for women and children. The law was named in memory of Saltanat Nukenova, a 31-year-old woman murdered by her husband, former economy minister Kuandyk Bishimbayev, in a case that shocked the nation and triggered mass protests. As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, the new law re-criminalized domestic battery and the infliction of minor bodily harm, which had previously been classified as administrative offenses. It introduced harsher penalties for repeat offenders and eliminated legal loopholes that allowed reconciliation in cases involving minors. For the most serious crimes, including murder and sexual violence against children, the law provides for life imprisonment.

Asset Recovery

From Mansions to Classrooms: Kazakhstan Turns Corruption Assets into Public Good

Kazakhstan is actively reclaiming assets obtained through corrupt practices and redirecting them toward social development. Confiscated properties, including luxury mansions, high-end vehicles, and even ancient jewelry, are being allocated for public benefit, particularly in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. These efforts form part of a broader anti-corruption campaign under President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, which aims to transform stolen wealth into schools, hospitals, and public services while restoring public trust in government. Luxury Assets Reallocated for Public Use Over the past several years, billions of dollars in assets have been returned to the state budget. On September 5, officials announced that a luxurious mansion formerly owned by convicted ex-Prime Minister and ex-head of the National Security Committee Karim Massimov had been transferred to the Ministry of Education. Located in Astana, the property will be converted into a center for children with special needs. Initially slated for auction, the villa was withdrawn from sale and reassigned for social use. Massimov, who was sentenced in 2023 to 18 years in prison for high treason, attempted coup, and abuse of office, had amassed large amounts of property and luxury goods now being liquidated or redirected to state use. [caption id="attachment_35913" align="aligncenter" width="1303"] Image: National Security Committee of the Republic of Kazakhstan; a luxury mansion once owned by ex-Prime Minister Karim Massimov, complete with a disco bar, private theater, pool, and 30 rooms[/caption] This approach is not limited to Massimov’s holdings. In 2025, assets belonging to Perizat Kairat, the founder of a high-profile charity fund, were confiscated after she and her mother were convicted of embezzling donations meant for flood victims. The case shocked the country, as Kairat had been celebrated for her volunteer work before investigations revealed widespread fraud. She received a 10-year prison sentence while her mother was given seven years. Their seized property included a private house and apartments in Astana, along with luxury vehicles such as a Mercedes-Benz S450, Lexus LX 600, and Mercedes EQS 500. Authorities announced that these assets would be auctioned, with proceeds used to compensate victims defrauded by the foundation. [caption id="attachment_35911" align="aligncenter" width="649"] Image: Instagram; Perizat Kairat in Abu Dhabi[/caption] A Legal Framework for Asset Recovery A legal framework for asset recovery underpins these actions. In July 2023, Tokayev signed the Law “On the Return of Illegally Acquired Assets to the State,” targeting entities involved in large-scale corruption and oligopolistic practices. The law established an Asset Recovery Committee and a state management company to oversee confiscated property. It also created mechanisms to repatriate funds hidden abroad. Since its adoption, Kazakhstan’s Anti-Corruption Agency has recovered approximately 1.12 trillion KZT, ($2.1 billion) in assets and funds. These reclaimed resources are being reinvested in critical sectors. Examples of reallocated property illustrate the scale of the initiative. In Almaty, the Kaisar Tower business center, once privately owned, was transferred to the Kazakh National Women’s Pedagogical University. Another building in the city was handed over to the T. Zhurgenov Kazakh National Academy of Arts. In Astana, three mansions confiscated from corrupt officials are...