Author: Mike Nova

An increasing number of villages across Kazakhstan are voluntarily banning the sale of alcohol, reflecting a grassroots movement aimed at improving public health, safety, and the wellbeing of future generations.

Prosecutor General Berik Asylov highlighted the trend on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, describing it as a conscious decision made by ordinary citizens, not a top-down directive.

“When citizens take responsibility, reality itself changes,” he wrote, emphasizing that the initiative stems from the community level.

Bottom-Up Initiative, Top-Level Support

One notable example comes from a village in the Mangistau region, where residents released a video declaring their collective decision to stop selling alcohol. Similar efforts have emerged in Akmola, Zhambyl, Karaganda, Atyrau, and other regions. While still relatively isolated, these cases are increasing, Asylov noted, with the number of “dry” villages steadily growing.

The movement is often driven by local community councils and elders, supported by the prosecutor’s office, police, and akimats (local government offices), which help implement preventive measures and maintain order.

Entrepreneurs have also played a key role. Responding to requests from fellow villagers, many voluntarily removed alcohol from their shelves. Contrary to concerns, these businesses did not suffer losses, residents began purchasing more nutritious food and products for children instead.

Visible Impact on Communities

According to Asylov, the results are already apparent: crime rates are dropping, domestic violence is decreasing, and more young people are choosing sports and healthier lifestyles over alcohol.

“This is a real-life demonstration of the principle of ‘Law and Order’, not enforced by fear, but built on trust; not through punishment, but through personal choice,” he said.

Official Data Reflects the Trend

Law enforcement statistics support this development. In the first quarter of 2025, the number of crimes committed under the influence of alcohol declined nationwide, a direct outcome of such community-led initiatives.

In Aktobe region, 33 villages across nine of the region’s twelve districts have officially stopped selling alcohol, according to local media.
In Turkestan region, 61 more villages have taken similar steps, according to Murat Kabdenov, head of the regional police department.

Meanwhile, the village of Sunkar in Almaty region stands out for its complete elimination of alcohol from daily life, not just retail outlets.

A Vision for the Future

Prosecutor General Asylov reaffirmed that the General Prosecutor’s Office supports any community-driven initiative that promotes social harmony, respect for the law, and a shared vision for a better future.

“People value trust, stability, and peace. They inspire each other through personal example,” he concluded.