Bride Kidnapping
Did you know...?
Kyrgyzstan is a former satellite of the Soviet Union, which is not much smaller than Britain (with a land mass of 77,182 sq miles) but has a population of just 4 million. It borders China, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
Although it's a predominantly Muslim country, alcoholism is rife in Kyrgystan, thanks to the ready availability of cheap Russian vodka and the national drink koumiss (made from fermented mare's milk and reputed to be 'an acquired taste').
The Chinese call the Kyrgyzstan mountains 'Tien Shan' - the heavenly range - thanks to their dramatic landscape of snowcapped mountains, glaciers and high-altitude lakes. More than 94% of the country is mountainous and 75% of it is under cover of snow for much of the year.
65% of the population live in rural areas - where most of the kidnappings take place.
Strictly speaking, bride-kidnapping has been illegal since 1992, but the law is rarely enforced. The custom has gained in popularity since Kyrgyzstan gained its independence. Some see this as a reassertion of traditional culture, but more probably it's because of simple economics.
The wealth of Kyrgyzstan has plummeted in recent years and it's financially easier to take a suitable woman captive than the other option of handing over a large dowry. And when 82% of women live below the poverty line and their average annual salary is just $34 (compared to just over $400 for men), it's understandable that many consent to be taken.
Feature by Sam Jordison for More4.
