Kazakhstan is preparing for significant changes in legislation regulating military discipline and law enforcement, as well as measures to prevent offenses in the army. This information was announced by Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov in response to a request from deputies regarding the need for systemic changes in this area.
Legislative and Digitalization Initiatives
By the president's directive, the government has already submitted three draft laws to the Mazhilis:
- "On the Prevention of Offenses";
- "On Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts on the Prevention of Offenses";
- "On Amendments and Additions to the Code of Administrative Offenses".
These documents aim to clearly delineate the functions between military police, command, and other bodies, as well as to create a legal basis for the implementation of digital systems for monitoring disciplinary violations.
As part of this reform, an interdepartmental program "Digital Prevention" for 2025–2028 has been approved, which involves the integration of video surveillance systems, the use of artificial intelligence technologies, and the creation of a unified database for monitoring law and order in the army.
Additionally, the program "Law and Order in the Army" is being implemented, aimed at improving military discipline and preventing offenses among servicemen.
Penalties for Unauthorized Absence
The authorities do not plan to strengthen penalties for unauthorized absence from the unit or place of service. The government noted that the current legislation already includes both administrative and criminal liability measures — from fines to imprisonment for up to five years.
Currently, military authorities are conducting constant monitoring of disciplinary offenses and investigating the reasons for such violations.
Social Aspects and Contract Service
Starting in 2025, amendments were made to the Law "On Military Service and the Status of Servicemen," according to which individuals dismissed for negative reasons will be able to re-enlist for contract service only after two years.
A working group has also been established in the Mazhilis to address issues related to parental leave for male servicemen, abuse of social guarantees, and the procedure for dismissal. After forming a unified position, amendments to the legislation will be proposed.
Psychological Support and Suicide Prevention
The training of military psychologists is carried out in accordance with state educational standards using adapted methodologies (PHQ-9, GAD-7, subjective well-being scale).
In addition, the Ministry of Health has developed a Roadmap for Preventing Suicides among the Population of Kazakhstan for 2026–2028, with special attention given to servicemen.
Training and Education of Servicemen
As part of the interdepartmental program "Law and Order in the Army," standard training programs for sergeants and contract servicemen are being developed. These programs include new formats of classes, such as lecture-dialogues, master classes, training sessions, and "business games".
These measures aim to improve the image of the Armed Forces and develop a system of military-patriotic education for youth, as outlined in the concept effective until 2030.
