IMPERATIVE OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Introduction section

With the fact that the world is developing, more and more situations are happening that are currently being tried to solve. The pervasive issue of kidnapping poses a multifaceted challenge to societies worldwide, as it not only inflicts severe emotional and physical trauma on victims and their families but also has broader socio-economic implications. (Haugaard, 2018). According to official data, more than 4508 people were abducted in 2022 alone, and the number of abducted tourists from Kazakhstan and people abducted on the territory of Kazakhstan were also added to the total number. (Terrorism: Number of Kidnappings 2020, n.d.). Many people every year suffer from the kidnapping and feel uncomfortable due to the public unsafety. I chose this topic as when I was on a trip, we lost our grandfather, and we were told about the possibility of kidnapping in that country. In my opinion, it’s one of the main problems in the whole world, which is not particularly publicized. Kidnapping means unlawful taking and carrying away of a person by force or  or the unlawful seizure in various motives.
The purpose of this research work on the "Imperative of Public Safety and Transnational Kidnapping" is to comprehensively investigate and analyze the critical intersection between public safety concerns and the escalating threat of transnational kidnapping. The primary goal is to contribute valuable insights to the understanding of the complex dynamics surrounding this phenomenon, with the aim of informing policy, guiding strategic interventions, and ultimately enhancing public safety on both national and international levels.fraud or the unlawful seizure in various motives.

Context section

Kidnapping, a nefarious act as old as civilization itself, continues to haunt societies worldwide, leaving in its wake a trail of devastation and fear. Defined as the unlawful seizure and detention of individuals through force, deception, or coercion, kidnapping strikes at the very heart of personal security and societal stability. Its impact extends far beyond the immediate victims, inflicting profound emotional scars on families, communities, and nations alike. This phenomenon manifests in various forms and contexts, ranging from opportunistic abductions for ransom to politically motivated kidnappings aimed at exerting control or extracting concessions. Whether perpetrated by criminal syndicates, terrorist groups, or even state actors, the threat of kidnapping looms large, casting a shadow over the fabric of society and undermining trust in public safety mechanisms.

The principal determinants contributing to societal insecurity, especially concerning public safety concerns, are multifaceted and often interconnected. Firstly, socioeconomic disparities play a significant role in shaping the level of security within a society. Studies have consistently shown that areas characterized by high levels of poverty, unemployment, and income inequality tend to experience higher rates of crime and public safety concerns (Sampson & Wilson, 2015). Limited access to education, healthcare, and other basic services exacerbates social tensions and increases the likelihood of criminal behavior. In addition, inadequate law enforcement resources and infrastructure can undermine efforts to maintain public safety. Insufficient funding for police departments, lack of training, and outdated technology can hamper law enforcement agencies' ability to effectively prevent and respond to criminal activities. Moreover, issues such as corruption within law enforcement agencies can further erode public trust and confidence in the justice system (Corruption Perceptions Index 2020).

Advanced surveillance technologies play a crucial role in the prevention and investigation of transnational kidnapping by enhancing the capabilities of law enforcement agencies to monitor, track, and apprehend perpetrators, as well as to safeguard potential victims. These technologies encompass a wide range of tools and systems, including but not limited to closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, facial recognition software, satellite imagery, and communication interception devices. For example, in urban environments, CCTV cameras can be strategically deployed in public spaces, transportation hubs, and high-crime areas to deter criminal activity and provide real-time monitoring for early intervention (Byrne & Marx, 2019). Moreover, the integration of facial recognition software with surveillance systems enables authorities to identify known criminals or suspects in crowded areas, thus facilitating timely responses to potential threats

Geopolitical factors, including diplomatic relations, significantly influence effective international collaboration to combat transnational kidnapping. Political tensions, historical rivalries, and divergent national interests may hinder cooperation between affected countries. Building trust, fostering dialogue, and aligning interests are essential to overcoming geopolitical challenges (Barnett, 2011; Keohane, 2019). Conversely, geopolitical tensions and historical animosities between nations can hinder effective collaboration in combating transnational kidnapping. Political disputes, territorial conflicts, or ideological differences may impede the sharing of vital information or hamper joint rescue operations. For example, joint efforts between the United States and Mexico have led to the dismantling of transnational kidnapping rings operating along the border, resulting in significant arrests and rescue operations (Alonso, 2021).

Ethical negotiation strategies prioritize the safety and well-being of victims above all else. They take into account the psychological impact of the kidnapping ordeal on victims. Governments must consider the emotional trauma experienced by victims and their families and tailor their responses accordingly. Providing access to mental health support services and counseling is essential for helping victims cope with the psychological consequences of their ordeal. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), access to psychosocial support significantly contributes to the well-being and recovery of victims of trauma (WHO, 2019). Furthermore, Ethical government responses extend beyond the immediate negotiation phase to include long-term support and reintegration assistance for victims. This includes providing access to medical care, education, vocational training, and employment opportunities to help victims rebuild their lives after their release. A report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) emphasizes the importance of comprehensive support services in promoting the recovery and well-being of victims of transnational kidnapping (UNODC, 2019).

In extreme circumstances, individuals may resort to kidnapping as a means of survival or to escape from dire situations. For example, in war-torn regions or areas with extreme poverty, some may argue that individuals resort to kidnapping as a last resort to secure ransom money necessary for food, shelter, or medical care, especially, when people have no another chances to alive.

The purpose of this research work on the "Imperative of Public Safety and Transnational Kidnapping" is to comprehensively investigate and analyze the critical intersection between public safety concerns and the escalating threat of transnational kidnapping. The primary goal is to contribute valuable insights to the understanding of the complex dynamics surrounding this phenomenon, with the aim of informing policy, guiding strategic interventions, and ultimately enhancing public safety on both national and international levels.

Therefore, in these research the main research questions were:

1. What are the principal determinants contributing to societal insecurity, particularly regarding public safety concerns?
2. How does advanced surveillance technologies help in the prevention and investigation of transnational kidnapping?
3. What role does geopolitical factors, including diplomatic relations will play in fostering effective international collaboration to combat this security challenge?
4. How do ethical considerations surrounding government response and negotiation strategies in transnational kidnapping cases impact the well-being of victims?

Methodology section

Questions:

1. How do the kidnapping affects at Kazakhstan?

2.Can statistical analysis identify any demographic patterns among kidnapping victims, such as age, gender, occupation, or socio-economic status?

3. What psychological impacts do victims of kidnapping and human trafficking experience as a result of being misled and what coping mechanisms do they employ to rebuild their lives post-release ?

4. How often do Kazakhstanis encounter misleading information related to public safety on social media platforms (e.g., Facebook^*, Twitter *, WhatsApp)?

Data collection will involve a combination of qualitative methods such as interview, as well as quantitative methods such as survey. Interview will be transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key themes and patterns. Quantitative data from a survey, will be analyzed using appropriate statistical techniques to identify trends and associations. Surveys include questions pertaining to experiences with kidnapping, encounters with misleading information on social media, and demographic information such as age, gender, occupation, and socio-economic status. Data is collected anonymously to encourage candid responses. To understand the effects of transnational kidnapping on public safety in Kazakhstan, a mixed-method approach will be employed. Qualitative data will be gathered through interviews with government officials, law enforcement agencies, and experts in international security and human trafficking to gain more information about the security and public safety in Kazakhstan. Statistical analysis will be conducted using a survey. Quantitative data is collected through structured surveys administered to a representative sample of the population. Surveys include questions pertaining to experiences with kidnapping, encounters with misleading information on social media, and demographic information such as age, gender, occupation, and socio-economic status. Data is collected anonymously to encourage candid responses. Descriptive statistics will be employed to identify demographic patterns among kidnapping victims, including age, gender, occupation, and socio-economic status.  Additionally, standardized psychological assessments such as the Impact of Event Scale (IES) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL) will be administered to assess the severity of trauma and psychological distress. Thematic analysis will be used to identify common themes related to psychological impacts and coping strategies employed by victims. A survey will be distributed to a representative sample of Kazakhstanis to assess their exposure to misleading information related to public safety on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp. The survey will include questions about the frequency of encountering misleading information, sources of information, and perceived credibility of such information. Descriptive statistics will be used to analyze the survey responses and identify trends in the dissemination of misleading information on social media platforms in Kazakhstan. All data collected is treated with strict confidentiality, with identifying information removed or anonymized to protect participants' privacy. Data storage and handling procedures adhere to ethical guidelines and legal regulations. Findings may be specific to the context of Kazakhstan and may not be generalizable to other populations or regions.

Result section

RQ1: How do the kidnapping affect’s at Kazakhstan?

According to the result of interview, about public safety, the respondent answered that the occurrence of transnational kidnapping in Kazakhstan significantly impacts the safety and security of its citizens. The occurrence of transnational kidnappings can create fear and anxiety among the population, especially among vulnerable demographics such as women and those living in rural areas with limited access to education and technology. This fear can affect daily activities, leading individuals to feel uncomfortable when alone or at night.

Cooperation with international organizations is crucial for investigating cases, securing the release of hostages, and preventing future incidents. The government of Kazakhstan implements measures such as strengthening border security, conducting operations to dismantle criminal networks, and collaborating with international partners to combat transnational kidnapping and human trafficking.

Individuals and organizations can mitigate the risk of transnational kidnapping by conducting regular risk assessments, staying informed about current trends, and implementing security measures such as access controls and surveillance systems. Despite efforts to address the issue, kidnapping continues to pose a threat to the safety and security of Kazakhstan's citizens, necessitating ongoing vigilance and collaboration at both national and international levels.

RQ2: Can statistical analysis identify any demographic patterns among kidnapping victims, such as age, gender, occupation, or socio-economic status?

According to the survey, about public safety, the respondents suggest that certain demographic groups are indeed more vulnerable to kidnapping than others. Among the identified demographic patterns: about 37.2% of respondents choose the answer that children more tend to be kidnapped. According to the respondents, females are more frequently targeted than males, with 25.2% cases compared to 2.6%. Individuals with low socio-economic status are affected 2 times more frequently than with high socio-economic status 10.0% compared to 4.6% ( Fig. 1)

Statistical analysis can effectively identify demographic patterns among kidnapping victims. With 40,4% of respondents indicating belief in its effectiveness compared to 8.8% who do not, and 50,8% being unsure This indicates a consensus that statistical analysis can indeed be utilized to identify demographic patterns among kidnapping victims, including factors such as age, gender, occupation, and socio-economic status. (Fig. 2)

RQ3: What psychological impacts do victims of kidnapping and human trafficking experience because of being misled and what coping mechanisms do they employ to rebuild their lives post-release?

Victims of kidnapping and human trafficking often experience profound psychological impacts as a result of being misled and subjected to traumatic experiences. These impacts can include feelings of fear, anxiety, helplessness, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The trauma of being forcibly taken from their homes, separated from their families, and subjected to physical and emotional abuse can have long-lasting effects on their mental well-being.

Upon release, victims may employ various coping mechanisms to rebuild their lives. These mechanisms can include seeking therapy and counseling to address trauma and psychological wounds, reconnecting with family and loved ones for emotional support, and engaging in support groups with other survivors to share experiences and find solidarity. However, the process of recovery can be challenging and may require ongoing support and resources. International organizations and local authorities can play a crucial role in providing survivors with access to comprehensive support services, including medical care, legal assistance, and rehabilitation programs. By addressing both the psychological and practical needs of survivors, efforts can be made to help them heal and rebuild their lives in the aftermath of such traumatic experiences.

RQ4: How often do Kazakhstanis encounter misleading information related to public safety on social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp)?
 About 87% of respondents were school students aged from 15 to 20, other 13% of respondents were older than 20. Also 53% of them were women, and another 47% were men. Based on the survey, it can be inferred that a significant portion of Kazakhstanis have encountered misleading information related to public safety issues. 63.2% of respondents indicate they have encountered such misinformation compared to 26.3% who have not, and other 11.5% choosing not to answer. Among those who have encountered misleading information, the majority 60.1% of reported encountering it on social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram^*, and Telegram. Other 17% answered that from a word of mouth and another 17% answered from Television and news.(Fig. 3)

Discussion section

The findings of this research underscores, the urgent need for concerted efforts at both national and international levels to combat transnational kidnapping effectively. By addressing the research questions posed, valuable insights have been gained into the determinants of societal insecurity, the role of advanced surveillance technologies, the impact of geopolitical factors on international collaboration (Barnett, 2011; Keohane, 2019), and the ethical considerations surrounding government responses and negotiation strategies in transnational kidnapping cases. Statistical analysis reveals demographic patterns among kidnapping victims, highlighting the vulnerability of children, females, and individuals with low socio-economic status. Also, the majority consensus on the potential efficacy of statistical analysis in identifying such patterns suggests a promising avenue for future research and policy development. Psychologically, victims of kidnapping and human trafficking endure profound trauma, including fear, anxiety, helplessness, and PTSD. Additionally, based on the survey the prevalence of misleading information related to public safety on social media platforms highlights a concerning trend among Kazakhstanis.

The arguments presented in the research are well-supported. Arguments effectively integrates relevant literature and empirical evidence to substantiate key points, such as the impact of socioeconomic disparities on public safety and the role of advanced surveillance technologies in combating transnational kidnapping.

The sources cited in the research appear to be credible and authoritative, providing a solid foundation for the argument presented. References to academic studies, official data, and reports from organizations such as the World Health Organization and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime lend credibility to the research findings and contribute to its overall reliability. However, it would be beneficial to provide more specific citations for some of the claims made, particularly regarding statistical data and research findings. The results presented in the research appear to be reliable, as they are based on a combination of qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. The use of interviews, surveys, and statistical analysis allows for a comprehensive examination of the research questions and provides multiple sources of evidence to support the findings.

Despite the thorough methodology employed, several challenges and weaknesses warrant consideration.  Additionally, the lack of longitudinal data hinders the assessment of long-term impacts and trends. Furthermore, while the study provides valuable insights into the situation in Kazakhstan, a more comparative analysis with other countries facing similar challenges could offer a broader perspective. Some of the information provided was also outdated, and it was difficult to find reliable sources on this topic, as most information is classified and the reliance on survey responses may introduce biases, and the generalizability of findings may be limited due to sample size and selection. As the respondence’s were mainly school students.

Further research is needed to continue exploring the implications of the findings for policy and practice. Moreover, as the overall theme of public safety and kidnapping is closely related with psychology and their work as the victims of kidnapping need a consultations; that’s why, interview from the psychologist. Stakeholders, including government agencies, law enforcement, international organizations, and civil society, must collaborate to develop and implement holistic approaches to prevent and respond to transnational kidnapping effectively. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to track trends over time, comparative analyses across different regions, and the evaluation of intervention programs' effectiveness. Additionally, efforts should be made to raise public awareness, improve access to education and economic opportunities, and strengthen international cooperation mechanisms to address this global security threat comprehensively.

Conclusion section

In conclusion, this research delves into the dynamics of transnational kidnapping, helps to understand profound societal implications and the imperative for enhanced public safety measures. The study underscores the urgency of addressing this global security challenge through a multifaceted approach that encompasses socio-economic, technological, geopolitical, and ethical dimensions. Through rigorous investigation, the research identifies key determinants contributing to societal insecurity, emphasizing the role of socioeconomic disparities, inadequate law enforcement resources, and corruption within justice systems. Moreover, it highlights the critical role of advanced surveillance technologies in prevention and investigation efforts, showcasing their potential to bolster law enforcement capabilities and safeguard potential victims.

Geopolitical factors emerge as crucial considerations in fostering effective international collaboration to combat transnational kidnapping. The study underscores the need for building trust, fostering dialogue, and aligning interests among nations to overcome geopolitical challenges and enhance cooperation mechanisms. Ethical considerations surrounding government responses and negotiation strategies are paramount in prioritizing the well-being of victims. The research emphasizes the importance of comprehensive support services, including access to mental health support, reintegration assistance, and long-term rehabilitation programs, to aid survivors in rebuilding their lives post-release. Statistical analysis reveals demographic patterns among kidnapping victims, providing valuable insights into vulnerability factors such as age, gender, and socio-economic status. Furthermore, the prevalence of misleading information on social media platforms underscores the need for enhanced public awareness and critical media literacy initiatives.

While the research presents a comprehensive analysis, several challenges and limitations are acknowledged, including outdated information, reliance on survey responses, and sample biases. Future research directions emphasize longitudinal studies, comparative analyses, and the evaluation of intervention programs to inform evidence-based policies and practices.

In essence, addressing the complex issue of transnational kidnapping requires the collaboration of governments, law enforcement agencies, international organizations, and civil society. Through a holistic approach that combines preventive measures, effective law enforcement strategies, and victim-centered support services, progress can be made in enhancing public safety and tackling this global security challenge.

*социальная сеть, запрещенная на территории РФ, как продукт организации Meta, признанной экстремистской – прим.ред.