Government Initiatives to Bolster Kazakh as National Tongue in Kazakhstan
A New Spin on Kazakhstan's Immigration Reforms
Kazakhstan is stirring up some changes within its borders, restructuring its immigration and naturalization system for newcomers. This revamp includes language and history tests, demonstrating a push to encourage the use of Kazakh within the nation.
In May, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed the amendments into law. These changes require potential citizens to prove their competency in Kazakh and display a basic understanding of the country's history and constitution. The amendments also present criteria for preventing individuals from obtaining citizenship and make a case against dual citizenship by allowing Kazakh citizenship to be revoked if an individual is also a citizen of another nation.
Officials like Interior Ministry spokesman Shyngys Alekeshev articulate that the amendments are essential for the rapid integration of newcomers into Kazakh society. "Mastering Kazakh is crucial," Alekeshev stated to journalists, claiming that the legislation aligns with international standards in countries such as Germany, Canada, and Turkey.
Amidst the restructuring of immigration policies, geopolitical dynamics play a substantial role. In post-Soviet times, claims of territorial disputes and state legitimacy have surfaced from Russian leaders and intellectuals. These contentions have escalated since Russia's unprovoked attack on Ukraine in 2022, leading to heightened sensitivities regarding Moscow's intentions towards Kazakhstan. Consequently, the immigration amendments might serve as a means to fortify Kazakh sovereignty against encroachment from its northern neighbor.
Russian bloggers have criticized these changes, labeling them as expressions of anti-Russian nationalism. In response, Kazakh commentators argue that Russia enforces similar requirements for acquiring Russian citizenship.
Since gaining independence, the demographic composition of Kazakhstan has become predominantly Kazakh. Nevertheless, the Russian language persists as the primary means of communication in many aspects of life, particularly in urban areas and governmental offices.
In late 2023, the government introduced a plan called the Concept for the Development of Language Policy for 2023-2029, aiming to increase Kazakh use in daily interactions. Additionally, the government is considering a television and radio content provision that requires 55% of content to be in Kazakh by 2025, rising to 60% by 2027. Similar regulations for labeling goods already exist.
The distribution of Kazakh and Russian languages varies across Kazakhstan. According to historical ties, a significant number of ethnic Kazakhs are unable to communicate in their titular language. For exclusive Russian speakers like Arman Baigozhin, owner of an Almaty coffee shop, the language barriers pose challenges.
The phrase "Qazaqsha soyle" (Speak Kazakh) has become popular, often heard in Almaty on the streets, in supermarkets, and public transportation. This phrase has also evolved into an Internet meme, symbolizing an expectation for the spoken language to be Kazakh.
In formulating policy and encouraging language use, Kazakhstan stands at the intersection of reinforcing national identity, safeguarding sovereignty, and fostering integration. While efforts to promote Kazakh are evident, the influence of the Russian language persists and presents a nuanced bridge between historical contexts and modern practices.
Some Food for Thought
- Investment Opportunities: Kazakhstan provides investment-related immigration programs with opportunities to secure residency and, over time, citizenship without a direct citizenship-by-investment option [1].
- Cultural Shifts: A decline in the number of citizens seeking to change their nationality in Kazakhstan may reflect the growing sense of national identity and stability [4].
Navigating the crossroads between geopolitical dynamics and internal identity construction, Kazakhstan charts a path that balances its past with its future, promoting Kazakh language and culture while blending the remaining influence of Russian culture.
The immigration amendments in Kazakhstan, aimed at integrating newcomers into society, require potential citizens to demonstrate knowledge of Kazakh language, history, and constitution, mimicking international standards seen in countries like Germany, Canada, and Turkey. Investors, therefore, might find investment-related immigration programs attractive in Kazakhstan, as they offer opportunities for residency and eventual citizenship, although direct citizenship-by-investment is not available [1].
In education and self-development, the increase in Kazakh use in daily interactions is a part of Kazakhstan's Concept for the Development of Language Policy for 2023-2029. This initiative seeks to foster language competency among its citizens and simultaneous preserve cultural traditions while adapted to modern practices.
