Women’s Rights and Countering Extremism Discussed with Students

Students met with officers from the North Kazakhstan Region Police Department. Key topics discussed included women’s right to personal freedom, liability for violence, stalking, and forced marriage, as well as issues related to countering religious extremism and terrorism as threats to Kazakhstan’s national security.

The police officers spoke about traditional religions and the emergence of new religious movements in the country, highlighting their specific characteristics and directions. They also explained the dangers that religious extremism and terrorism pose in the modern world.

Social and financial vulnerability among young people, a tendency toward maximalist judgments, psychological immaturity, and significant dependence on others’ opinions often contribute to the spread of radical ideas among youth. The police emphasized that inciting hatred, hostility, and degrading the dignity of others is unacceptable and that preventing such actions is a shared responsibility of society.

To provide a clearer understanding of the issue, students were shown videos illustrating the consequences of involvement in extremist groups.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the officers answered a number of questions from the audience.