Kazakh Filmmaker Sheds Light on Violence Against Women in New Documentary
Kazakh Director Releases Documentary on Sexualized Violence in Kazakhstan
Kazakh director Rinat Balgabayev has recently released a documentary titled “Gorgon” that sheds light on the issue of sexualized violence in the country. The film, made with the support of United Nations (UN) Women Kazakhstan, features real stories of women who have survived gender-based violence, as well as experts working to combat gender-based and domestic violence in Kazakhstan.
Balgabayev expressed that the purpose of the project is to bring attention to the widespread problem of sexualized violence in Kazakhstan and provide a platform for women survivors to share their experiences. The aim is to encourage society to support these survivors and work towards changing existing social norms that often lead to misunderstanding and victim-blaming.
The UN reports that one in six Kazakh women experience violence every year, yet much of this violence remains hidden due to stigma and fear of discrimination. By releasing the film just before International Women’s Day, Balgabayev and UN Women hope to send a powerful message of empowerment and unity in the fight against gender-based violence.
Dina Amrisheva, the acting head of the UN Women’s Office in Kazakhstan, praised the bravery of the women who shared their stories in the documentary, hailing them as inspirations for other survivors of violence. The hope is that “Gorgon” will serve as an important advocacy tool in the ongoing battle for women’s rights and the eradication of all forms of violence in society.
With its impactful storytelling and call to action, “Gorgon” is set to spark conversations and prompt change in Kazakhstan and beyond.
