NCJ Number
213815
Date Published
2004
Length
81 pages
Annotation
This study examined the problem of the commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) in Kazakhstan as well as how it is being combated.
Abstract
The main forms of CSEC in Kazakhstan include child prostitution, child trafficking, child pornography, and early marriage. Child prostitutes in this area are typically between the ages of 14 to 17 years and generally include at-risk populations such as homeless and neglected children, children from disadvantaged families, and children who are victims of domestic abuse. Trafficking in women and children is a relatively new phenomenon in the Kazakhstan region and generally takes the form of sexual slavery, brothel prostitution, confinement, deprivation of freedom, and indebtedness. Child pornography is not produced in Kazakhstan but is imported from other countries like Russia. The past few years have witnessed the suppression of Internet access to child pornography Web sites in this country. Finally, while the official data indicates that the number of marriages involving children in Kazakhstan is low, researchers assume that there are many more children living with adults in civil marriages. The factors leading to children’s involvement in CSEC are considered, the medical and social risk factors associated with CSEC are reviewed, and groups at risk of CSEC are identified. Current legislation regarding children’s rights in Kazakhstan is reviewed and the major institutions for child protection and combating CSEC in Kazakhstan are listed and described. Targeted programs addressing the social conditions of children in Kazakhstan are also described and include the “Children of Kazakhstan” program for 2004 through 2007, which incorporates health care, state support, and prevention activities. Finally, an analysis of the gaps in combating CSEC in Kazakhstan is presented with corresponding recommendations for overcoming the gaps. Gaps include a lack of expertise for investigating CSEC crimes and a lack of adequate information regarding CSEC. Data were drawn from publications about CSEC, legislation and other documents, Web sites, and mass-media publications. Figure, tables, footnotes, bibliography