On the way to creating a safe environment

An informational and educational meeting was held at Shakarim University on the topic “Safe future: shared responsibility in countering stalking.” During the event, the problem of stalking was comprehensively discussed, which often remains outside the proper attention of society, but poses a direct threat to the psychological well-being of the individual and public safety.

The main purpose of the meeting was to explain the essence of stalking as a form of violence, increase the legal and psychological literacy of students, create a culture of respect for personal boundaries, and strengthen the understanding of the general responsibility of society in preventing such phenomena.

The event was organized by the head of the University Center for Social Support and Youth Development, PhD, Associate Professor Arailym Orazgaliyeva. Representatives of government bodies, public organizations, law enforcement agencies and social services took part in the discussion and shared their professional experience.

Freelance adviser to the akim of the Abay region on gender equality, Arailym Alimzhanova, emphasized the importance of strengthening the principles of gender equality and creating a culture of zero tolerance for violence. She noted that stalking often begins unnoticed, but over time can develop into systematic harassment, psychological pressure and intimidation.

Deputy of the Maslikhat of the Abay region, regional commissioner for children's rights Elzira Soltabaeva focused on the draft resolution of the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On approval of the Concept “Children of Kazakhstan” for 2026–2030”, emphasizing that ensuring the safety of children and adolescents is one of the priority areas of state policy.

Director of the Center for Support of Family and Victims of Domestic Violence in Semey, Nazim Shakaeva, shared her practical experience in creating a society without violence, especially noting the role of support centers in protecting the rights of girls and women. Ainagul Nurtazina, coordinator of the public fund “Ana Uyi”, spoke about the comprehensive assistance provided to young mothers who find themselves in difficult life situations.

Deputy of the Maslikhat of the Abay region, development director of Eikos LLP Angela Maslova noted the role of the deputy corps and local executive bodies in developing a policy of zero tolerance to violence. In turn, the head of the department for combating domestic violence in the city of Semey, police major Ainur Kabdylkakova, explained in detail the issues of criminal and administrative liability for forced marriage, stalking and domestic violence. It was emphasized that improving legislation is aimed at increasing the legal awareness of young people.

Methodologist of the Regional Methodological Center for Psychological Support Balzhan Asetova presented a meaningful report on psychological boundaries, the concept of consent and hidden forms of violence, calling on young people to clearly define their own boundaries and respect the personal boundaries of others.

During the meeting, the participants came to the understanding that stalking is not a private problem of an individual, but a social phenomenon that affects the security of the entire society. Students actively participated in the discussion and received answers to their questions.

Such events help improve the legal culture of students and create a safe and informed environment. A secure future is our shared responsibility, and zero tolerance for violence must become an integral principle of a civilized society.

It is worth noting that Shakarim University was one of the first among the country’s universities to issue an information leaflet for students “Unsiz Kalmau: Stalkingke karsy kures.”