Head of the Public Foundation “Kazakhstan Without Drugs” Protopriest Anatoly Izmerov Participates in the Forum “A Family Without Violence: Dialogue, Prevention, Protection”

April 29, 2025 – With the blessing of Metropolitan Alexander of Astana and Kazakhstan, Protopriest Anatoly Izmerov, Chairman of the Society of Orthodox Physicians of Kazakhstan and Head of the public foundation Kazakhstan Without Drugs, took part in the forum “A Family Without Violence: Dialogue, Prevention, Protection.”

The event was held at Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University in the city of Almaty; it was organized by the Psychological Support Service under the Department of Social and Youth Policy.

The forum focused on issues related to the prevention of domestic violence; the strengthening of the institution of marriage; and the promotion of traditional family values.

Its main goal was to discuss the preservation of family values; the prevention of violence; the protection of family rights; and to adopt effective measures in this field.

The event was attended by: S. Karipbekov, Prosecutor of Almaty; A. Zapparov, Head of the Police Department of the Southern Capital;A. Nusipova, Deputy Akim of Almaty; O. Asangazy, public and political figure; B. Tlep, Chairman of the Board and Rector of Abai KazNPU; D. Yerlankyzy, Commissioner for Children’s Rights in Almaty; representatives of local executive authorities; state agencies; and religious organizations.

During the forum, Protopriest Anatoly Izmerov delivered a greeting address on the spiritual and moral foundations of family life.

He emphasized the importance of raising children in love, respect, and responsibility – grounded in the Christian understanding of marriage as a sacred union. He paid particular attention to the Church’s role in supporting families in crisis; and to the need for dialogue among social institutions to effectively combat domestic violence.

In the second part of his address, Fr. Anatoly gave a brief account of the work of the public foundation Kazakhstan Without Drugs in this area.

After his presentation, the speaker answered questions from the audience and shared Church-based experience in family support and child protection.

The participation of Orthodox clergy in such events helps strengthen ties between the Church and society; fosters mutual trust; and encourages cooperation in addressing today’s critical social challenges.