The event opened with welcoming remarks by Roman Vassilenko, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Kingdom of Belgium, who highlighted the historic significance of the new Constitution’s entry into force, describing it as the beginning of a new stage in the country’s political modernization. He also emphasized the symbolic timing of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s official visit to Brussels shortly before this milestone, underscoring the link between Kazakhstan’s domestic reforms and the development of its strategic partnership with the European Union.

Zhandos Shaimardanov presented an expert overview of Kazakhstan’s new constitutional model.

In his remarks, he stressed that the entry into force of the new Constitution marks a fundamentally new stage in Kazakhstan’s political and legal development. According to Mr. Shaimardanov, the renewed Basic Law is the result of broad public dialogue and establishes a new architecture of state governance based on modern constitutional values, with priority given to human rights, freedoms, and dignity.

The Director of KazISS noted that the constitutional reforms provide a solid institutional foundation for the country’s continued modernization, strengthening the rule of law, enhancing the state’s accountability to its citizens, and ensuring the sustainability of ongoing reforms.

Particular attention during his presentation was devoted to the practical implementation of the constitutional reforms, further improvement of national legislation, and the development of a new model of national progress based on human capital, knowledge, innovation, and digital transformation.

During the discussion, participants exchanged views on the implementation of constitutional reforms, the prospects for Kazakhstan’s political modernization, and the further development of cooperation between Kazakhstan and the European Union.

Eduards Stiprais, the European Union Special Representative for Central Asia, emphasized the importance of the consistent implementation of Kazakhstan’s institutional reforms. Dietmar Krissler, Head of the Central Asia Division at the European External Action Service, reaffirmed the European side’s support for Kazakhstan’s political transformation agenda, as outlined during the official visit of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to Brussels.

At the conclusion of the event, participants noted that the «Shanyraq Dialogue» continues to serve as an effective platform for open expert dialogue between Kazakhstan and its European partners on political reforms, domestic development, and international cooperation.

Сообщение KazISS Director Presented Expert Perspective on Kazakhstan’s New Constitution in Brussels появились сначала на KAZAKHSTAN INSTITUTE FOR STRATEGIC STUDIES
UNDER THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN.

From the Kazakhstani side, the forum was attended by political scientist Talgat Kaliyev, Deputy Director of the Institute for Foreign Policy Studies under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Manarbek Kabaziyev, IWEP expert Lidiya Parkhomchik, Deputy Director of KazISS Dauren Aben (moderator), Deputy Director of KazISS Zhanar Gabdullina, Chief Research Fellow of KazISS Sanat Kushkumbayev, as well as other KazISS experts.

The Armenian side was represented by INFORS Armenia founder Gevorg Melikyan, Orbeli analytical Center expert Johnny Melikyan, Senior Research Fellow at APRI Armenia Benyamin Poghosyan, Senior Research Fellow at the Institute for Security Studies (London) Eduard Abramyan, founder of the Alternative Research Center Tatul Manaseryan, and founder of the Anush Klimchik Foundation (Yerevan) Andrzej Klimczyk.

The discussion focused on key directions and trends of transformation taking place in Central Asia and the South Caucasus. As participants noted, regional geopolitics is undergoing a phase of profound change, requiring states to adopt more flexible approaches, seek sustainable formats of interaction, and adapt to the multipolar configuration of international relations. Special attention was paid to the interconnectedness of processes in the two regions and the growing importance of interregional cooperation.

Experts discussed current security challenges, prospects for political dialogue, and the possibility of building a long-term sustainable peace in the South Caucasus. Issues of economic cooperation, transport and logistics connectivity, and the potential of projects capable of linking Central Asia and the South Caucasus were also addressed. Particular interest was shown in the prospects for the development of the Middle Corridor as a tool for expanding communications and strengthening economic ties. Kazakh and Armenian researchers emphasized that amid global turbulence, the role of expert exchange is increasing, and regular forums serve as an effective platform for discussing strategic issues and developing proposals for government authorities of both countries. Following the forum, the parties expressed their readiness to strengthen partnership ties between the expert communities of the two countries and to promote the expansion of analytical cooperation between the two regions.

Сообщение Experts discussed regional geopolitics and prospects for cooperation появились сначала на KAZAKHSTAN INSTITUTE FOR STRATEGIC STUDIES
UNDER THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN.

One of the consequences of the technological revolution has been the emergence of artificial intelligence-enabled weapons capable of operating with minimal human intervention. The growing spread of autonomous technologies in the military sphere raises serious concerns due to the legal, humanitarian, and ethical implications of their use on the battlefield. Key issues include the degree of human involvement in decision-making, responsibility and accountability in the deployment of AWS, and the consequences of self-learning systems.

As a country that has traditionally advocated for strengthening international arms control regimes, Kazakhstan is a strong supporter of adopting a legally binding instrument regulating AWS. The country’s successful experience in nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation provides a solid foundation for advancing this agenda both in the region and at international platforms. In this context, Kazakhstan attaches particular importance to engaging partner countries in discussions on the challenges and risks associated with the uncontrolled development and unregulated use of AWS.

The roundtable, held in a hybrid format, brought together diplomats, military and civilian officials, representatives of analytical and academic institutions from Kazakhstan and other Central Asian countries, as well as ICRC experts. During the event, participants had the opportunity to enhance their understanding of the process of developing international norms on AWS control and exchanged views on ways to address existing regulatory challenges.

The roundtable was attended by Dauren Aben, Deputy Director of KazISS under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan. In his speech, he presented a regional perspective on the strategic and security issues related to the development and proliferation of AWS. In particular, he highlighted the threat of an arms race in this field and analyzed political barriers to achieving international consensus on AWS. According to Dauren Abenuly, autonomous weapons systems are not merely a new technology — they represent a challenge to the fundamental principles of international security and humanitarian law. The international community must approach this issue responsibly and prevent the emergence of a “legal vacuum” that could in the future lead to consequences for humanity as devastating as the potential use of nuclear weapons.

Сообщение The issue of autonomous weapons systems was discussed In Astana появились сначала на KAZAKHSTAN INSTITUTE FOR STRATEGIC STUDIES
UNDER THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN.

According to the study, a total of 68.3% of citizens of Kazakhstan view the idea of a unicameral Parliament positively. At the same time, the level of support varies depending on the respondents’ gender and age. Among men, this indicator stands at 71.1%, while among women it is 66.1%. The highest level of approval is recorded among young people aged 18–29 (72.9%), reflecting the interest of the most active and socially engaged group in renewing the political system.

As for the transition to a proportional electoral system, it is supported by 63.6% of respondents. Men demonstrate a slightly higher level of approval (65.4%) compared to women (62.2%). Support is especially notable among young people: 71% of respondents aged 18–29 have a positive view of forming the Parliament exclusively through party lists. This trend reflects the growing political awareness of young citizens and their interest in systemic forms of political participation.

The level of education also plays an important role. The highest level of support for the transition to a unicameral Parliament is observed among citizens with an academic degree (75.4%) and those with higher education (71.7%). This indicates that the reform is perceived as a step toward improving the quality of the legislative process and optimizing the structure of government. Similarly, supporters of the proportional system are more often respondents with higher education (67.5%), which confirms the tendency of more educated population groups to view party-based representation mechanisms as an instrument for modernizing the political system.

Territorial differences are also noteworthy. Residents of rural areas generally show a higher level of support for parliamentary reform compared to urban residents. The transition to a unicameral Parliament is viewed positively by 72.8% of rural residents, while among urban residents the indicator is 65.4%. Similar differences are observed regarding the formation of the Parliament through party lists: 67.8% of rural respondents and 60.8% of urban residents support this initiative. This dynamic may be explained by stronger trust in government initiatives among the rural population, as well as the expectation that simplifying the parliamentary structure will increase its efficiency and transparency.

Overall, data of KazISS demonstrate a high level of public consensus regarding the parliamentary reform. The prevailing support for a unicameral Parliament and the transition to a party-based representation system indicates the readiness of Kazakh society for institutional changes aimed at strengthening the effectiveness of the legislative branch and developing political culture.

* The sociological survey was conducted by order of KazISS from October 3 to November 5, 2025. The sample size was 8,000 respondents. The survey included respondents aged 18 and older from 17 regions and 3 cities of national significance – Astana, Almaty, and Shymkent.

Сообщение The majority of Kazakhstanis support the transition to a unicameral Parliament появились сначала на KAZAKHSTAN INSTITUTE FOR STRATEGIC STUDIES
UNDER THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN.

The first Astana Think Tank Forum took place in 2024 and was dedicated to the role of middle powers in a changing global order. Since then, the forum has established itself as an authoritative global platform for discussing pressing international issues.

The forum participants were addressed by Magzum Mirzagaliyev, Adviser to the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, who emphasized that the forum’s agenda reflects the complexity of the current international relations system – from the reform of global governance and the end of the unipolar era to nuclear challenges, the development of artificial intelligence, and the interconnectedness of climate, water resources, and demographics.

“Kazakhstan firmly believes that trust is the cornerstone of peace and that dialogue is the most reliable path through uncertainty. Guided by the vision of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, our nation has consistently championed peace, trust, and responsible diplomacy”, emphasized Magzum Mirzagaliyev.

In his opening remarks, the Director of KazISS, Zhandos Shaimardanov, noted that the Astana Think Tank Forum is a platform based on trust, open discussion, and the pursuit of practical solutions.

“Our goal is to move beyond statements — to find practical solutions and shape a shared vision for the future. In this regards, think tanks play a vital role. They are bridges between knowledge and decision-making, between analysis and action. At a time when uncertainty and fragmentation are shaping global politics, the work of research institutions becomes especially important. Think tanks help societies look beyond the immediate — to understand trends, find solutions, and restore trust in dialogue,” said Shaimardanov.

The first session of the Astana Think Tank Forum 2025 was dedicated to the topic: “Multilateralism at a Crossroads: Reforming Global Governance in a Divided World.” The session was moderated by the UN Resident Coordinator in Kazakhstan, Sarangoo Radnaaragchaa. Participants discussed the current state of international institutions and focused on finding new formats for cooperation in the face of growing polarization and fragmentation of the international community.

A recurring theme in the discussion was the need to rethink the role and structure of the UN and other multilateral institutions responsible for ensuring the security, sustainability, justice, and effectiveness of the international order in the 21st century.

In this context, Kazakhstan’s First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yerzhan Ashikbayev, emphasized the growing role of middle powers in his speech.

“Today, the formation of a “constructive consensus” and the strengthening of multilateralism become essential, as responsibility for maintaining a stable and just world order falls on a wider circle of international players. According to President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Middle powers are increasingly emerging as key actors in ensuring stability, peace, and development in their regions and beyond. They can act as mediators, offering dialogue and cooperative platforms where the ambitions and interests of global players collide.,” said Yerzhan Ashikbayev.

Saeed Khatibzadeh, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and President of the Institute for Political and International Studies of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, underlined that lasting peace is only possible through strict adherence to the principles of the UN Charter, which form the basis of international law and broad consensus among states.

Another session participant, Joshua Lincoln, Senior Research Fellow at the Center for International Law and Governance at Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University, and a Visiting Fellow at Kellogg College, University of Oxford, pointed out that the current system of multilateral institutions and its foundational document, the UN Charter, were created in a fundamentally different historical context when factors such as the Internet, artificial intelligence, gender and climate agendas were absent.

“Given this complex new historical context and a more complicated reality, the role of middle powers will only grow. This is largely because middle powers are expanding their agency through constructive interaction and arbitration between great and small powers,” emphasized Joshua Lincoln.

Li Yongquan, Head of the Scientific Council of the Institute for the Social Development of Europe and Asia at the Development Research Center of the State Council of China, shared his opinion that the ongoing transition from a unipolar world to a multipolar one is a painful process full of uncertainty and confrontation.

“Nevertheless, cooperation must become the most significant feature of a multipolar world. Cooperation requires adherence to the basic principles of international law, primarily the UN Charter, and it demands that major powers take responsibility for maintaining peace. We already have good examples of such cooperation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the Central Asia + China mechanism,” said Li Yongquan.

Charles McLean, Founder and Managing Director of Borderless Consulting Group, emphasized in his speech that it is middle powers that are best positioned to propose a constructive agenda and effective reform of the international multilateral system.

“Despite the focus on great powers and the recurring confrontations between them, it is the middle powers that are increasingly capable of promoting their agendas, acting as agents, and balancing the international system. The rise of Kazakhstan as a middle power, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s address at the UN General Assembly anniversary — all of this shows that the group of middle powers has a very clear vision of how to reform the system of multilateral institutions with a practical orientation in light of the major changes happening in the world,” concluded Charles McLean.

The Astana Think Tank Forum 2025 continues its work on October 15-16. During this period, nine sessions will address key international agenda issues, such as the prospects of multilateral cooperation in the context of competition among major powers, the transformation of the security architecture, the future of nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation, and the impact of Afghanistan on the Central Asian region.

Other topics on the forum’s agenda include investments in the era of fragmented global markets, the development of trade and transport corridors in Eurasia, artificial intelligence and related ethical dilemmas, and the impact of climate change and water issues on demographic processes and migration.

The Astana Think Tank Forum aims to promote open and constructive dialogue between researchers, experts, representatives of international organizations, governments, and business circles. It is designed to develop recommendations for inclusive and long-term formats of interaction that contribute to global stability and trust, and to strengthen Kazakhstan’s position as a responsible and active “middle power” contributing to the development of partnerships in international relations.

Сообщение Experts in Astana Discuss the Shift from Polarization to Partnership and the Rebuilding of Trust in the International System появились сначала на KAZAKHSTAN INSTITUTE FOR STRATEGIC STUDIES
UNDER THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN.

Erdenetsogt Dorjpalam, Head of the Center for Central Asian Studies at the ISS of Mongolia, briefed participants on the activities of the institute and the main areas of work of the center he leads.

During the discussion, participants noted that transport and logistics cooperation between Kazakhstan and Mongolia encompasses a wide range of areas – from rail and road connections to civil aviation and infrastructure development.

The participants also highlighted the positive dynamics in the growth of freight transportation by road and rail, and expressed interest in expanding direct air routes between Astana, Ölgii, and Ulaanbaatar. Such expansion, they emphasized, would contribute to further strengthening of bilateral cooperation and the development of business ties.

Сообщение Transport and Logistics Opportunities between Kazakhstan and Mongolia Discussed at KazISS появились сначала на KAZAKHSTAN INSTITUTE FOR STRATEGIC STUDIES
UNDER THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN.

1. Chief Expert of the Department for Economic Policy Analysis (Category B1-2)

Functional Responsibilities:
Conducting fundamental and applied scientific and analytical research on complex areas of the Department’s activities; submitting proposals for inclusion in research plans; justifying and developing new research directions and methodologies; selecting the necessary tools for implementation; participating in the preparation and organization of scientific-practical conferences, round tables, and working meetings of the Institute’s management related to the Department’s thematic areas; participating in national and international expert events; and engaging with the media.

Salary:

Eligibility Requirements:

• Higher education and at least 10 years of professional experience; or
• A Master’s degree and at least 5 years of professional experience; or
• A PhD degree along with published scientific works and/or patents, with no work experience required.

Document Submission Period:
Applications are accepted within 15 calendar days from the next working day after the final publication of this announcement on the official KazISS website.

Required Documents:

1. Application for participation in the competition (with a list of attached documents);
2. Completed personal data form (indicating actual residential address and contact numbers);
3. Copies of educational documents meeting the qualification requirements for the position;
4. Copy of a document confirming employment history;
5. Medical certificate (Form No. 075/u);
6. At least two references from previous places of employment;
7. Personal data contained in identification documents.

Applicants may also submit additional materials regarding their education, work experience, and professional qualifications (such as copies of certificates of advanced training, scientific publications, and letters of recommendation from previous employers).

Interview Location:
Astana, 4 Beibitshilik Street.

Submission Address:
Documents may be submitted in person or by mail to:
Astana, 4 Beibitshilik Street, Office 520
Phone: +7 (7172) 57-21-06, ext. 221.

Сообщение The Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstanannounces a competition for the vacant position of Chief Expert of the Department for Economic Policy Analysis появились сначала на KAZAKHSTAN INSTITUTE FOR STRATEGIC STUDIES
UNDER THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN.

According to the sociological data, respondents demonstrate a high level of public trust in the institution of the presidency.

The Head of State consistently holds a leading position in the ranking – 82.4% of citizens trust President Tokayev.

Trust in the Head of State is highest among young people aged 18–29 (90.3%). They are followed by age groups 30–45 (82.4%), 46–60 (78.6%), and 61+ (77.8%). Rural residents show slightly higher trust in the President compared to urban residents (84.9% and 80.9%, respectively). At the same time, the level of trust remains virtually the same among respondents with different income levels and employment statuses.

The analysis of the collected data also demonstrates that the highest levels of trust in the Head of State are expressed by employees in the education sector (89.6%) and healthcare (84.5%), civil servants (87.1%), law enforcement officers (96.9%), representatives of the agricultural sector (86.2%), science (85.7%), as well as culture and the arts (85.9%).

Thus, the results of the sociological survey confirm the consistently high level of public trust in the Head of State, which highlights the effectiveness of the state policy in the eyes of citizens.

Сообщение Public Support for President Tokayev’s Political Course Remains at a High Level появились сначала на KAZAKHSTAN INSTITUTE FOR STRATEGIC STUDIES
UNDER THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN.

According to the survey results, 76.3% of respondents are familiar with the content and key provisions of the country’s Constitution. In terms of age, it is noteworthy that young people are more informed about the Constitution. Thus, 79.1% of respondents aged 18–29 are well acquainted with/have read or have a general understanding of the Constitution. This is followed by the age groups 30–45 years (77.5%) and 46–60 years (74.9%). The figure is relatively lower among the oldest age group 61+ (72.5%).

The survey also showed that Kazakhstanis closely follow political changes and reforms, perceiving them as important steps toward strengthening the rule of law. The constitutional changes of 2022 proved significant for society, as evidenced by the high level of public awareness of their main outcomes. Respondents particularly remembered the following constitutional amendments adopted in the referendum of June 5, 2022:

• Establishing the principle that land, subsoil, and other natural resources are the exclusive property of the people – 27.8%;
• Establishment of the Constitutional Court – 23.9%;
• Complete abolition of the death penalty – 13.4%;
• Granting constitutional status to the Commissioner for Human Rights – 10.3%;
• Strengthening the powers and status of the Mazhilis (lower house of Parliament) – 9.7%.

Among the most widely recognized innovations is the provision that the nation’s natural resources are the exclusive property of the people. In terms of the practical implementation of this constitutional norm, it is worth noting the “National Fund for Children” program, under which 50% of the annual investment income of the National Fund is allocated to individual savings accounts for children under 18. This national program, in line with the principles of a Just Kazakhstan, is intended to strengthen and secure a sustainable future for the younger generation through a fair redistribution of income from natural resources.

Overall, the study’s findings indicate both a high level of public awareness and broad approval of the 2022 constitutional reforms.

Three years later, citizens continue to emphasize the significance of these reforms and their positive impact on everyday life. As a result, the ongoing transformations in the country are of great value to the majority of Kazakhstanis. The reforms being implemented respond to the pressing needs of the population, clearly demonstrating the effectiveness of the principle of a “Listening State.”

Сообщение Constitutional Reforms of 2022 Have Had a Positive Impact on Citizens’ Everyday Lives появились сначала на KAZAKHSTAN INSTITUTE FOR STRATEGIC STUDIES
UNDER THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN.

1. Senior Expert of the Public Opinion Monitoring Department, category B1-4

Functional responsibilities:

• Participation in the development of sociological tools and preparation of analytical materials based on the results of sociological and other research;
• Participation in the organization and holding of scientific-practical conferences, round tables, expert meetings, and other events related to the Department’s areas of activity;
• Involvement in methodological support for research conducted by government bodies;
• Participation in national and international scientific forums;
• Engagement with mass media.

Salary:

Eligibility requirements:

• Higher education and at least 5 years of work experience;
• Or, with a Master’s degree, at least 3 years of work experience;
• Or, with a PhD and scientific publications and patents – no work experience required.

Application deadline:
Documents must be submitted within 15 calendar days from the next working day after the final publication of this announcement on the official KazISS website.

Required documents for participation in the competition:

1. Application for participation in the competition, indicating the list of attached documents;
2. Completed personal data sheet (with actual residential address and contact phone numbers);
3. Copies of educational documents meeting the qualification requirements for the position;
4. Copy of a document confirming employment history;
5. Health certificate in form No. 075/u;
6. Reference letter from the most recent place of work;
7. Personal data contained in identification documents.

Applicants may also submit additional information regarding their education, work experience, and professional qualifications (copies of certificates of advanced training, scientific publications, recommendation letters from previous employers, etc.).

Interview location:
Beibitshilik Street, 4, Astana.

Documents may be submitted in person or by post to:
Beibitshilik Street, 4, Office 520, Astana.
Phone: +7 (7172) 57-21-06 (ext. 221)

Сообщение The Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan announces a competition for the vacant position of Senior Expert of the Public Opinion Monitoring Department появились сначала на KAZAKHSTAN INSTITUTE FOR STRATEGIC STUDIES
UNDER THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN.