Abstract
This study represents one of the first comprehensive attempts to analyze the participation of citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan in foreign armed conflicts from the standpoint of criminal law and forensic science. The purpose of the article is a comprehensive criminal law and criminalistic analysis of the participation of citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan in foreign armed conflicts, identification of gaps and problems of legal regulation and law enforcement practice, as well as the development of scientifically sound proposals to improve Article 172 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan and improve the effectiveness of the investigation and evidence of these crimes. The paper highlights legislative gaps, challenges in proving intent and motivation, and issues arising in investigations and judicial proceedings under Article 172 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan. New approaches are proposed for legal classification, evidence collection, and cooperation between law enforcement agencies and international institutions. In addition, a comparative legal analysis of foreign practices is conducted, which serves as the basis for proposals to improve national legislation. As a result of the research, criminal law and forensic challenges were identified in the classification, investigation, and proof of citizens’ participation in foreign armed conflicts. The study reveals ambiguities and gaps in the legal regulation, insufficient clarity in the elements of the crime defined in Article 172 of the Criminal Code, and difficulties in investigative and judicial practice when establishing intent and other subjective elements of such acts. The article formulates concrete recommendations to improve the criminal legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan, particularly regarding clarifying the wording of Article 172, and provides practical guidance on the application of legal norms governing liability for participation in armed conflicts outside the country.