Kazakh village bans alcohol to keep its five-year crime-free streak alive

Toman, a village in the Isatay District, has officially become the 57th alcohol-free settlement in the Atyrau Region. The decision came after discussions with local residents about crime prevention, public safety, and healthy living. The village has already recorded no crimes in the past five years. Toman is mainly home to railway workers. It has a school, a kindergarten, and a cultural centre. Residents credit the peaceful atmosphere to close work with their local police officer and active community involvement.

The move to ban alcohol follows broader debates in Kazakhstan about drinking habits and their effects. Some argue that everyday alcohol use contributes to crime. Others see it as a social issue tied to historical and lifestyle changes.

Cultural studies scholar Samir Serkebayev suggests looking at alcohol consumption through history and social shifts. He notes that Kazakhstan never had a strong drinking culture historically. Patterns changed as collectivism declined. He also observes that modern anti-alcohol efforts may not always show immediate results. Toman’s alcohol-free status reflects its focus on safety and community well-being. The village’s crime-free record and cooperative approach set an example for similar initiatives. The decision also highlights ongoing national discussions about alcohol and its impact on society.