Using data from an original country-wide survey (N = 4,000) and series of in-depth interviews conducted across Kazakhstan in 2023, this paper explores respondents’ perceptions of civic and ethnic identity and belonging in Kazakhstan’s nation-building project. This article also serves as an enhanced follow-up study of an earlier survey-based project conducted in 2016 (N = 1,600) across Kazakhstan. Usage and cross-comparison of these comprehensive datasets collected in2016 and 2023 will permit to trace changes and dynamics in the national identity perception in Kazakhstan and to assess the interplay between the civic nation-building policies of the Kazakhstani state and perceptions of ordinary Kazakhstanis.

This study explores how Kazakhstanis perceive civic and ethnic identity within the context of the country's evolving nation-building agenda.

Methodology

• 4,000-respondent nationwide survey conducted in 2023

• In-depth interviews across multiple regions

• Cross-comparison with a 2016 survey (N=1,600) provides rare longitudinal insight

Key Findings

• Significant shifts have occurred in how citizens understand belonging, national identity, and the relationship between civic and ethnic elements.

• Comparative analysis reveals evolving dynamics in:

• Civic nation-building

• Ethnic identity markers

• Interplay between state policies and societal perceptions