Kazakhstan's ANA ÚIY project transforms lives through adoption and family
Kazakhstan Continues Efforts to Reduce Social Orphanhood and Foster a Culture of Adoption
Korlan Zhaissenbayeva, a legal expert at the National Adoption Agency under the ANA ÚIY Public Foundation, spoke to Liter.kz about how the system works, the challenges families face, and why fears about "hereditary risks" are largely unfounded.
— Could you tell us more about the ANA ÚIY project and the role of the National Adoption Agency within it?
— The ANA ÚIY Public Foundation is an initiative launched by Kazakhstani business leaders over thirteen years ago to prevent social orphanhood. Our primary goal is to reduce the number of children entering state institutions each year. Within this framework, the National Adoption Agency focuses on fostering an adoption culture, preparing and supporting foster families. Today, we have counseling centers in twenty cities across the country. Prospective parents undergo training at our Foster Parent Schools, where they work with psychologists. Thanks to these efforts, more than two thousand children have already found families.
— Society still holds strong stereotypes about "bad heredity." How justified are these fears?
— More often than not, these fears are rooted in myths rather than reality. We tend to overestimate the role of genetics while underestimating the impact of environment. No child is born "difficult"—they become that way due to traumatic experiences. Challenging behavior almost always stems not from innate character but from a lack of meaningful adult support. While a family can't erase a child's past, it can shape their future. In adoption, what matters most isn't perfect parents but stable, reliable adults who provide a sense of security and belonging.
— How does the adoption system in Kazakhstan work? How difficult is it to navigate the process?
— The process is governed by the Code on Marriage (Matrimony) and Family, with final approval granted by the court. The system itself is transparent: a national database contains information on children and prospective parents. Candidates undergo psychological preparation and compile a dossier—proof of income, health status, a clean criminal record, no psychiatric registrations, and consent from close relatives. After submitting an application via eGov and receiving approval, they gain access to the database. A mandatory introduction period follows once a child is selected. The case then goes to court, and after the ruling takes effect, a new birth certificate is issued. Only then does the family receive state support. The procedure is straightforward but demands both time and emotional readiness.
— Why, despite existing programs and foundations, are there still so many children in institutions?
What is the main reason so few children are adopted?
The primary issue lies in the children's legal status. Not all children are eligible for adoption—specific legal grounds must exist, such as the death of their parents, termination of parental rights, or formal relinquishment. Additionally, the system still includes teenagers, children with developmental challenges, and siblings who cannot be separated. Finding families for these children is far more difficult.
What risks do foster and adoptive families face?
The biggest risk isn't genetics—it's the lasting effects of a child's traumatic experiences. These can manifest as attachment difficulties, anxiety, or defiant behavior. But these aren't pathologies; they're natural responses to trauma. Problems tend to arise when families lack proper support. Adjustment can take years, and during this time, parents need access to professional help—not to be left to navigate the challenges alone.
What needs to change for society to view adoption differently?
This is a cultural question. Adoption should be seen not as an exception, but as a normal path to parenthood. Achieving that requires systemic effort: public education, open dialogue, and reducing stigma. A culture of adoption thrives where there is knowledge, trust, and positive experience.
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