Cultural and Religious Factors Influencing Suicidal Behavior in the Central Asian Region: An Epidemiological Study

• In Event: Understanding and Preventing Gun Violence and Other Forms of Harm

Abstract

This chapter investigates the epidemiology, risk factors, research, and preventive measures on suicidal behavior in the Central Asian Region (CAR). The study utilizes literature and claims that cultural and religious factors play an important role in determining suicidal behavior. The CAR states where Islam is the dominant religion have a low frequency of suicides, as noted in all historical periods: when they were part of the Russian Empire, part of the USSR, and during the transitional period as independent states after the collapse of the USSR. However, the post-Soviet era of Central Asia in the 1990s was a period of economic and political depression caused by the collapse of the USSR. Consequently, the high rate of alcoholism led to an increase in the number of suicides among CAR citizens. The study will conduct a longitudinal study to track changes in suicidal behavior trends in the CAR over time, particularly following significant events such as economic downturns or political unrest. This will help identify emerging risk factors and evaluate the effectiveness of prevention policy.

Authors

• Sanzhar Idirisov, Kyrgyz National Police (Ministry of Interior of the Kyrgyz Republic)

• Erlan Bakiev, UN Mission in South Sudan