National Reproductive Health Week Launched Across Kazakhstan
May 12–16, 2025 — Kazakhstan has launched the National Reproductive Health Week, a large-scale public awareness and education campaign initiated by the National Commission for Women Affairs, Family and Demographic Policy under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
At a press briefing, Zhuldyzai Iskakova, Deputy Chair of the National Commission, emphasized that President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev attaches great importance to reproductive health and supports initiatives aimed at helping families struggling with infertility.
“The risks in this area are increasing. That’s why the National Commission has brought together state agencies, medical and educational institutions, NGOs, and international partners to cultivate a culture of responsibility around reproductive health — particularly among adolescents and youth — and to disseminate reliable information about the risks of early sexual activity and sexually transmitted infections,” said Iskakova.
She also highlighted the ongoing implementation of the “Ansagan Sabi” program, launched by presidential instruction, to support couples facing infertility. At the same time, she stressed the importance of early education, as the foundation for reproductive health is laid during youth. According to UNFPA, over 60% of adolescents aged 15–19 in Kazakhstan are unaware of how to protect themselves from STIs and unintended pregnancies, and only 9% understand how HIV is transmitted — highlighting the urgent need for systemic education and prevention efforts.
“Adolescents and young people are among the most vulnerable. Without open dialogue and coordinated efforts, the rates of unintended pregnancies and infections will continue to rise. We call on journalists, educators, doctors, and experts to help deliver accurate, reliable information to a wide audience. Professional communities also play a key role in promoting verified knowledge — for the health of future generations,” she concluded.
National Partnerships and Activities
Key partners involved in the Week include: ● Ministry of Health ● Ministry of Education ● Ministry of Culture and Information ● Local executive bodies ● International and non-governmental organizations
Together, they are organizing hundreds of regional events, including: ● Open house days at clinics and youth health centers ● Lectures, workshops, and consultations for adolescents, parents, women, and men
Each day of the campaign is dedicated to a specific theme: ● May 12 — Family planning ● May 13 — Women’s health ● May 14 — Men’s health ● May 15 — Adolescent health and STI prevention ● May 16 — HPV and vaccination
Media and Online Engagement
The campaign also includes a national media and social media outreach effort, using unified hashtags: