Calls to Lower the Retirement Age for Women Reemerge in Kazakhstan

Discussions regarding the proposal to reduce the retirement age for women have resurfaced in Kazakhstan. Members of the "Women of Kazakhstan Movement" raised the initiative during a meeting with Mazhilis Member of Parliament Meirash Shynasylova, according to a statement from the Ak Zhol Democratic Party.

Following the meeting in September, a specialized discussion was arranged with Danara Kairolla, Director of the Department of Social Security and Insurance under the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population. According to the Ministry, pension payout amounts depend directly on length of service and total pension contributions. Additionally, time spent raising children or caring for individuals requiring special care is factored into total work experience.

The Ak Zhol Party stated that work on this issue will continue. Party representatives noted that women's proposals, current legal framework requirements, and potential social impacts will be carefully considered when formulating any decision.

Under current legislation, the retirement age for women in Kazakhstan has been set at 61 since 2024. Starting in 2028, it is scheduled to gradually increase until it reaches 63 in 2031.