Author
Assoc Prof Aigerim Mussabalinova
Organisation/Institution
KIMEP University
Country
KAZAKHSTAN
Panel
Children and Law
Title
Children’s Mental Health as a Human Right: Bridging Law, Policy, and Practice in Kazakhstan
Abstract
This paper explores how children’s mental health can be understood and protected as a fundamental human right within Kazakhstan’s legal and policy context. It argues that mental health should not be treated only as a medical issue, but as an essential part of the right to health and well-being, directly linked to children’s dignity, autonomy, and ability to participate fully in society. In Kazakhstan and other Central Asian countries, the legacy of welfare-oriented and paternalistic systems continues to shape child protection policies. While the legal framework recognizes children’s rights in line with international conventions, implementation often focuses on physical and educational needs, leaving psychological and emotional well-being under-addressed. As a result, mental health remains one of the least visible dimensions of child welfare, despite its critical role in development and social inclusion. This study adopts a socio-legal approach. It reviews national legislation and policy documents, situating them within international and regional standards on children’s rights. The full paper will show that improving children’s mental health requires moving beyond fragmented service delivery toward integrated, rights-based policymaking. It argues for stronger coordination between education, health, and social sectors, supported by public awareness and professional training. The paper concludes that protecting children’s mental well-being is not only a social or health concern, but also a legal and moral responsibility of the state—central to achieving justice and human development in Kazakhstan and across Asia.
Biography
Dr. Aigerim Mussabalinova is an Associate Research Professor at KIMEP University, School of Law. She earned her Ph.D. in Law from the University of Sussex, UK in 2021. Currently, her research encompasses children’s rights, Central Asian child protection systems, and the treatment of vulnerable groups. She actively collaborates with NGOs, including UNICEF Kazakhstan, and serves as a legal consultant on social policies. ORCID: 0000-0002-4158-9654
