The Kazakhstan government has officially outlawed "bride kidnapping," a local practice of forcing women into marriage. The decision came amidst international outcry and recognition of the practice as a form of gender violence. The ban was effected immediately, reflecting Kazakhstan's commitment to improve human rights, gender equality and to actively fulfill its obligations under international law.

In Japan, this news is being presented as a critical win for human rights and feminist movements, as the country has strong values tied to respect and equality. The practice of 'bride kidnapping' is foreign and seen as inhumane, sweeping it into the public discourse surrounding women's rights globally. Several NGOs and activist groups in Japan are celebrating this step towards international human rights reform.

In the US or EU, forced marriages are also illegal and are considered violations of human rights. They take strict measures to curb such practices and have multiple support systems in place for victims. This development in Kazakhstan would likely be seen as a positive step toward global gender equality and women's rights.