Post-Soviet Democratization: A Study on Kazakhstan's Political Transitions and Authoritarian Resilience

Md Anwar Hossen; Sharmine Akter Mito

doi:10.65826/CenRaPS.8.1.1.178

Authors

Md Anwar Hossen Department of Political Science and International Relations, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Türkiye, mdanwar.hossen@ogr.iu.edu.tr https://orcid.org/0009-0005-7630-3424
Sharmine Akter Mito Department of Public Administration, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh, sharminm952@gmail.com https://orcid.org/0009-0000-3473-5871

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.65826/CenRaPS.8.1.1.178

Keywords:

Authoritarianism, Democracy, Free and fair election, Fundamental rights, Kazakhstan, Political participation, Rule of law, Separation of powers

Abstract

Kazakhstan's path to democracy since its independence in 1991 has been marked by a blend of authoritarian control and democratic reforms. This study examines Kazakhstan’s democratic evolution from 1991 to 2023, focusing on separation of powers, political participation, rule of law, and fundamental rights. Using secondary data, the research explores constitutional reforms and electoral processes. While recent amendments have aimed to decentralize power and increase participation, the country’s democracy remains limited by a dominant central authority, restricted civil liberties, and manipulated elections. The study emphasizes the need for greater transparency, inclusiveness, and electoral integrity to foster meaningful democratic reform.

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Post-Soviet Democratization: A Study on Kazakhstan's Political Transitions and Authoritarian Resilience

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