Animal Cruelty: Fines to Increase and Penalties to be Strengthened

Proposals to strengthen accountability for animal cruelty have been introduced in Kazakhstan. These norms are being incorporated into a draft law currently under consideration by the Mazhilis.

According to the document, administrative liability for intentionally causing pain, injury, or the death of animals will be significantly increased. Fines for such offenses are expected to rise several-fold.

Edil Zhanbyrshin, Chairman of the Committee on Ecology and Nature Management, stated that these changes are being implemented following a direct order from the Head of State.

"President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev issued an order to strengthen responsibility regarding the issue of animal cruelty. In response, we are proposing amendments to the Criminal Code and the Code of Administrative Offenses," the deputy explained.

He further noted that criminal liability would also be tightened:

"If serious harm is caused to animals, it is proposed to increase the arrest period to up to six months. In cases of cruel killing of animals, the penalty could be extended to up to five years," said Edil Zhanbyrshin.

In addition to these measures, supplementary sanctions will be introduced, including the confiscation of instruments used in the offense and a ban on the right to own animals in the future. Furthermore, the draft law includes provisions for enhanced preventive work and educational initiatives to foster a more humane society.