"What Inmates Regret": KUIS Launches New Series

The Committee of the Penal Correction System (KUIS) is launching a new series titled “What Inmates Regret.” The main message is to raise awareness about the harmful consequences faced by those who have broken the law.

Convicted individuals share their stories of criminal paths, the hardships they’ve endured, and the regret they now feel while serving their sentences.

“These are stories of people who have come to understand the value of freedom and living within the law. They are meant to prevent offenses, particularly among youth. Many people commit crimes without thinking about the consequences of their behavior — such as drug use, aggression, and other offenses. If this content helps even a few people avoid making such mistakes, that would be a major success,” KUIS representatives note.

During individual therapy, almost all inmates express deep regret for their actions, especially over losing their freedom and the pain they’ve caused their loved ones. They have agreed to openly share these reflections with others.

“I don’t blame anyone. I made a mistake. That’s what led me here. My classmates are graduating, but I’m not… If I had realized everything in time, maybe I’d also be receiving a diploma now,” says a 23-year-old inmate. He dreamed of becoming a dentist but took a different path. He was convicted of drug-related offenses and sentenced to 7 years in prison.

In the videos, inmates address young people directly, urging them to value their freedom, think about their future, and avoid rash decisions.

The first video story received over 20,000 views, the second — more than 15,000, and the third — over 55,000 views.

New stories will be released weekly, featuring men, women, and minors currently held in correctional institutions.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/ps/press/news/details/1082780?lang=kk