The Current Condition of the Religious Sphere in Kazakhstan:

Article Information

Title: The Current Condition of the Religious Sphere in Kazakhstan:

Authors: Azilkhanov Marat Almasovich, Askhatuly Zhalgas

HEC Recognition History

Category	From	To
X	2024-10-01	2025-12-31
Y	2023-07-01	2024-09-30
Y	2021-07-01	2022-06-30
Y	2020-07-01	2021-06-30

Publisher: International Islamic University, Islamabad

Country: Pakistan

Year: 2022

Volume: 61

Issue: 2

Language: English

DOI: 10.52541/isiri.v61i2.2360

Keywords: religionKazakhstanSecuritysecularism.religious situation

Abstract

This article analyzes the current conditions and trends in the religious space of the Republic of Kazakhstan. It outlines the main challenges and threats in the religious sphere and evaluates the main tendencies. The article draws upon the state policy in the religious sphere as well as upon data gathered from sociological studies conducted in the territory of Kazakhstan. It also analyzes the normative and legal acts regulating the religious sphere of Kazakhstan. It studies the formation of state policy of secular Kazakhstan in the religious sphere, which has been shaped by three factors: the search for and determination of the national development strategy of the country; the challenges and threats of the modern globalizing world; and the rise of the processes of secularism in other states. The article attempts to analyze the results of sociological studies of recent years regarding the risks associated with the erosion of the secular foundations of the state, as well as the issues related to the self-identification of Kazakhstani citizens. In particular, the article provides comprehensive information on the confessional structure of Kazakhstan, as well as separate samples based on the results of sociological studies on religious issues carried out by government agencies.

Disclaimer: The following sections are produced through an intensive multi-stage analytical pipeline developed by DefinePK, utilizing advanced natural-language processing, domain-specific knowledge models, and automated cross-referencing systems. Despite the rigor and computational effort involved, the generated summary may still contain inaccuracies or incomplete interpretations. Users are strongly advised to verify all critical information against the original paper and its authoritative sources.

Research Objective

To analyze the current conditions, trends, challenges, and threats in the religious sphere of the Republic of Kazakhstan, evaluating main tendencies and the formation of state policy in this area.

Methodology

The study draws upon state policy in the religious sphere, data from sociological studies conducted in Kazakhstan, and an analysis of normative and legal acts regulating the religious sphere.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD;
    A[Analysis of State Policy in Religious Sphere] --> B[Data from Sociological Studies];
    A --> C[Analysis of Normative and Legal Acts];
    B --> D[Evaluation of Trends, Risks, and Challenges];
    C --> D;
    D --> E[Assessment of State Policy Formation];
    E --> F[Conclusion on Current Religious Sphere Conditions];

Discussion

The article discusses the evolution of state-religion relations in Kazakhstan since independence, highlighting the impact of liberal religious legislation and the subsequent need for regulatory reforms. It emphasizes the importance of religious security as part of national security and analyzes the challenges posed by religious extremism and radicalism. The authors also explore the demographic and regional distribution of religious affiliations and public perceptions of the religious situation.

Key Findings

Kazakhstan is a multi-confessional country with a majority of the population identifying as believers. Traditional Islam is the dominant denomination. The state policy in the religious sphere is shaped by national development strategy, global challenges, and secularization processes. While the religious situation is generally stable, risks include the erosion of secular foundations, radicalization of youth, and the spread of extremist ideologies.

Conclusion

The religious sphere in Kazakhstan is influenced by ethnic, social, geopolitical, and economic factors. Despite being a secular state with a Muslim majority, Kazakhstan maintains a stable religious situation through constructive interaction between state bodies and civil society, balanced state policy, and interfaith tolerance. However, ongoing vigilance is required to address the risks of radicalization and the erosion of secular principles.

Fact Check

- In the fourth quarter of 2021, 3,834 religious associations were registered in Kazakhstan, representing 18 denominations.
- A sociological survey in the fourth quarter of 2021 indicated that 89.2% of the Kazakhstani population considers itself "believers."
- The adoption of the Law on Religious Activities and Religious Associations in 2011 led to a decrease in the number of registered religious associations from 4,551 to 3,088.

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