Bulletin of the L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University. Political Science. Regional Studies. Oriental Studies. Turkology Series.

Prerequisites for innovative development of the People's Republic of China

А. Landelong — 2026-06-30

This article examines the genesis of the People's Republic of China's innovative development strategy in the context of socialist construction and reform. It demonstrates that innovative development in China is not a spontaneous phenomenon, but has evolved consistently over several generations of the country's political leadership – from the founding of the PRC to the "New Era of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics." The article analyzes the evolution of party leaders' views on the role of science, technology, and innovation in socioeconomic development, as well as the institutional and political conditions for the formation of a national innovation system. Particular attention is paid to the transformation of innovation policy from the adoption of foreign technologies to the development of independent innovation, strengthening the role of enterprises, and the formation of an innovation ecosystem. It concludes that innovation plays a key role as a strategic pillar of China's economic modernization and enhancing its global competitiveness.

A comprehensive analysis of the genesis of the PRC’s innovation strategy confirms that the country's technological modernization is the result of long-term party-state planning, which organically combines socialist construction with institutional reforms. Thus, the Chinese experience demonstrates the synergy of an active state role and an evolving national ecosystem, where innovation serves as the primary political and economic tool for ensuring the country's global competitiveness.

The Use of U.S. Educational Programs as a Soft Power Tool for Influence in Central Asia

G.T. Zhumash — 2026-06-30

In modern foreign policy, education is increasingly becoming a key instrument of soft power. Many countries seeking to expand their geopolitical influence utilize international educational programs, establish educational institutions abroad, or attract foreign students for study. Education has played and continues to play a central role in the development of soft power - a concept first introduced by Joseph Nye, which refers to a country's ability to influence others through attraction and public diplomacy rather than coercion. In this context, education has become an integral component of foreign economic and cultural policy. The United States actively employs this tool to extend its influence in Central Asia. Through educational programs, students are exposed to and assimilate the fundamental values of the host country. Such programs, including studying abroad and obtaining a diploma from the host country alongside a national qualification, foster a sense of loyalty among students toward that country. This is particularly significant in shaping and preparing the future economic, political, and cultural elite. As a result, education emerges as a crucial strategic tool of soft power, capable of influencing international relations and enhancing a nation's global image. The key argument is that education not only contributes to individual development and career advancement but also serves as a powerful mechanism for strengthening geopolitical influence, fostering international ties, and facilitating cultural exchange. Countries that invest in education and cultural initiatives abroad significantly enhance their ability to advance their interests on the international stage. Accordingly, this article aims to analyze the role of U.S. educational programs in the expansion of its geopolitical influence.

The impact of sanctions pressure on economic cooperation between Kazakhstan and Russia in the context of the Ukrainian conflict

A.O. Kabdulinova — 2026-06-30

The article comprehensively analyzes the impact of international sanctions imposed on the Russian Federation by Western countries in connection with the conflict in Ukraine on the nature and dynamics of economic cooperation between Kazakhstan and Russia. Particular attention is paid to changes in the structure of bilateral trade, including a decrease in the volume of supplies of high-value-added products, an increase in the share of raw material exports, and the growing importance of settlements in national currencies. It also analyzes the transformation of investment flows between the two countries as a result of increased sanctions pressure and limited access of Russian companies to international financial markets. This situation has led to a decrease in confidence on the part of Western investors in joint projects with the participation of Russian capital.

As a separate aspect of the study, an assessment of the risk of applying second-level sanctions against Kazakhstan is provided. This led to the need to introduce a strict compliance policy in the country's financial sector and measures to strengthen customs control over the transportation of goods through the country's territory. The article describes the phenomenon of the mass relocation of Russian businesses to the territory of Kazakhstan. This process, on the one hand, contributed to the growth of jobs and tax revenues; on the other hand, it led to an increase in the burden on infrastructure and increased competition in the domestic market.

The article reveals the role of Kazakhstan within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) in changing geopolitical conditions and analyzes the prospects for further development of economic relations between Kazakhstan and Russia, taking into account external challenges and threats. The importance of implementing a multi-vector foreign economic policy of Kazakhstan aimed at ensuring national economic security, diversifying trade and economic partners, and reducing the negative consequences of sanctions pressure is emphasized.

The Role of the Digital Silk Road in Technological Cooperation between China and Turkey

A.G. Berkinbay — 2026-06-30

This paper invest‏igates how China’s Digital Silk Ro‏ad initiative creates new opportunities fo‏r deepening technology investment and tra‏de ties between China and Tur‏key. It analyzes the strat‏egic geopolitical positions of both coun‏tries, their technological strengths an‏d weaknesses, and the poten‏tial synergies that can be lever‏aged through joint projects. Th‏e study explores specific sectors wi‏th strong prospects for cooperation, including infrastructure development, digi‏tal finance, e-comm‏erce, and artificial intelligence. In addition, the anal‏ysis considers the challenges inherent i‏n such cooperation, such a‏s regulatory barriers, cybersecurity iss‏ues, and potential geopolitical comple‏xities. Ultimately, the pap‏er evaluates the potential of th‏e Digital Silk Road to stimu‏late significant economic growth and technol‏ogical progress in both China an‏d Turkey, and identifies ke‏y strategies to minimize risks an‏d maximize the benefits of th‏is partnership.

The ke‏y sectors of cooperation, opportu‏nities and challenges, as we‏ll as the geopolitical context influe‏ncing the development of bilateral relat‏ions are examined. The advan‏tages and risks for both count‏ries associated with deepening digital partne‏rship are analyzed.

Th‏e article also explores the conc‏ept of the Digital Silk Ro‏ad as a major component o‏f the Belt and Road Initi‏ative and analyzes the significance o‏f the BRI for digital intera‏ction between China and Turkey. Particular attention is given t‏o digital infrastructure, including ne‏xt-generation communication networks, e-commerce, artif‏icial intelligence, big data an‏d also related technologies. Th‏is study examines China’s strategic pu‏sh to advance its digital age‏nda globally and Turkey’s strategic ro‏le as a technological bridge betw‏een Europe and Asia. I‏t identifies major opportunities for bilat‏eral collaboration in digital infrastructure inves‏tment, technology transfer, an‏d joint innovation projects, whi‏le also addressing key challenges su‏ch as cybersecurity risks, digi‏tal sovereignty concerns, and geopol‏itical competition. The paper concl‏udes that the Digital Silk Ro‏ad can become a powerful dri‏ver of China–Turkey digi‏tal cooperation if both sides main‏tain a balanced regulatory framework th‏at protects national interests.

The Armenian Factor in the context of the Organization of Turkic States: Central Asian positions and Regional Integration

K.A. Afandiyeva — 2026-06-30

This study examines the Armenian factor within the system of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) by analyzing its impact on the foreign policy positions of Central Asian countries and on the broader dynamics of regional integration. The article focuses on Azerbaijan's role in political, economic and transport-communication connectivity between the South Caucasus and Central Asia, while also taking into account the cautious diplomatic approaches of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan. The study argues that the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict and the post-conflict regional environment should not be interpreted only as a bilateral security issue, but also as a factor that reveals the degree of political solidarity, institutional coordination and strategic maturity within the OTS. Special attention is given to the influence of external actors, the internal ethno-demographic context of Central Asian states, the comparative experience of other protracted conflicts, and the economic role of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in the development of Turkic integration. In this context, the OTS is understood not as a confrontational bloc directed against Armenia, but as a platform for political dialogue, transport connectivity, economic cooperation and sustainable regional security (Organization of Turkic States, 2021; Yaldız, 2023).

Absenteeism of Japanese youth as a reflection of the transformation of civic identity

K.M. Adyrbayeva — 2026-06-30

This article examines the phenomenon of absenteeism, defined as the lack of or passive participation of Japanese youth in the country's political life. Younger people's interest in elections and political processes is declining significantly due to the growing aging Japanese population and the adoption of most social reforms in their favor. The paper analyzes the factors influencing the electoral behavior of youth in Japan and its consequences. The purpose of this study is to examine the phenomenon of absenteeism as a social manifestation of young people's refusal to participate in political life and to identify the prerequisites and determinants of its emergence. The analysis identified the main causes of absenteeism, including institutional reforms, transformations of the political system, and the specifics of the young generation's political socialization. The article also examines why Japanese citizens who have reached the age of 18 refuse to participate in elections and show little interest in doing so. The analysis is based on research by Japanese scholars and Japanese statistical data. The results demonstrate that the decline in the level of political engagement of the younger generation is due to a combination of socioeconomic and political-institutional factors. The article also examines changes in value orientations and the influence of the environment on the formation of political attitudes. This research can be used to develop measures aimed at increasing youth political engagement and improving state legislation. It particularly emphasizes the need to adapt political mechanisms to the needs of young adults and to encourage participation in socio-political life.

Arapça Asıllı Memlük Kıpçak Türkçesine Aktarılan Dini Bir Eser Olarak Kitab-ı Mukaddime’nin Çevirisi Üzerine Yapılan Çalışmalar

M.M. Issakhanova Kırca — 2026-06-30

Ebü’l-Leys es-Semerkandi’nin Kitab-ı Muakddime adlı eseri, Memlük döneminde Arapçadan Memlük Kıpçak Türkçesine aktarılmış önemli bir ilmihal yazma eseridir. Yazılı miras eseri Kıpçak ve Oğuz dil unsurlarının birlikte kullanılması, metnin karışık bir dil yapısına sahip olduğunu ortaya koymaktadır. Metnin dil özellikleri Arapça ve Türk dilinin oluşum sürecinde büyük önem taşımaktadır. Bundan dolayı Kitab-ı Mukaddime her iki lehçe (Kazak Türkçesi ve Türkiye Türkçesi) için, için hem dil bilim hem din bilimi alanındaki ilişkilerini anlaşılmasına katkı sağlayan temel metinlerden biri olarak sayılmaktadır.

Makalede, Ebü’l-Leys es-Semerkandi’ye ait olan Kitab-ı Mukaddime eseri üzerine Kazakistan, Türkiye başta olmak üzere, çeşitli ülkelerde yapılmış bilimsel çalışmalar, makaleler, tezler ve kitaplar incelenecektir. Eserin dil, çeviri ve içerik özelliklerine yönelik yaklaşımları değerlendirilecektir. Taranan çalışmaların konusu, daha çok hangi alan ele alınmış olduğu tespit edilecektir.

Bu kaynaklardan yola çıkarak ilmihal ve dini içerik odaklı değerlendirmeler, birleşik fiiller ve deyimleşmiş yapılar, söz varliği ve leksikolojik incelemeler, hal ekleri, zaman ve kip kategorileri, zarf-fiil ekleri, sıfat-fiil ekleri, biçim bilgisi, ses bilgisi özellikleri, Oğuz ve Kıpçak unsurlarının birlikte kullanımı, nüshalar ve satır altı çeviri üzerine yapılan araştırmalar ayrı bailıklar altında sınıflandırılacaktı. Böylece, dilbilimsel alandaki boşluklar ve mevcut araştırma boşluklarını ortaya koymayı amaçlamaktadır. Bu değerlendirme gelecekte yapılacak olan bilimsel çalışmalara ışık tutacaktır.

Semantics of Persian words found in the work "Shezhire-i terakime"

D.A. Baltabay — 2026-06-30

Linguistic analysis of the Turkic written heritage, historical manuscripts and epics plays an important role in determining the historical development of the language and its formation. The object of the study of the article was the work of Abilgazy Bahadur Khan, "Shezhire-i terakime", written in the 17^th century. This work is a medieval written monument containing valuable information about the history, culture, ethnography and geographical names of the Turkic peoples. This work is a version of the epic "Oguznama", written in the Arabic alphabet. In the lexical composition of the text of the work, along with ancient Turkic words, Arabic, Persian and Mongolian words are often found. The article examines the lexical and semantic features of Parsisms found in this work. In addition, the task is to determine the scope of their use in the modern Kazakh language, Kazakh folklore and zhyrau poetry. While in historical lexicology, borrowed vocabulary, especially Arabic and Persian words, is considered as a single “Arab-Persian vocabulary”, in this study, it is analyzed separately, as a separate linguistic layer. Also, depending on the degree of assimilation of Persian words by the Kazakh language, they are divided into three groups and described: a) words that are used in the modern Kazakh language, retaining their original meaning; b) words that have undergone semantic changes, but are still used; c) lexical units that have fallen out of use or are completely not used in the modern Kazakh language. The main goal of the study is to identify the historical and linguistic links between the Chagatai script and the Kazakh language by analyzing the Persian words found in the text of “Shezhire-i terakime” from the lexical and semantic points of view.

The Role of Mukhammad Shaybani Khan’s Works within the Classical Chaghatay Literature

N.D. Sultanbayeva — 2026-06-30

In reference to the studies and research conducted so far, Chaghatay, the medieval literary Turkic language, has a major impact on Islamic Central Asian Turkic literature. Due to this fact, there is a key role of representatives such as Ali Shir Nava’i and Babur, who are considered the pillars of the Chaghatay language. Muhammad Shaybani Khan (1451-1510), a prominent figure of the late 15^th and early 16th centuries, was also one of the poets of the classical era of Chaghatay Turkic. Outside of his role as a conqueror and legislator, he composed several works, namely the collection of poems Dīvān, Bahru’l-Huda (Sea of Guidance) and a treatise related to fiqh, Islamic jurisprudence.

This article aims to illustrate the importance of Shaybani Khan’s works in Chaghatay literature and evaluate their role in the growth of the language. The study starts with a brief overview of Chaghatay literature and outlines key moments in Shaybani Khan’s life and career. The discussion turns to three of his known compositions. Building on the research of Yakup Karasoy and August Samie, the article analyzes selected passages that reveal how Shaybani Khan wove together religious discourse, moral exhortation, and political messages within his writings. His works demonstrate a deliberate blending of poetic form with ideological purpose, seeking both to affirm Sunni Islam and to legitimize his political authority. The analyses highlight that Shaybani Khan’s writings emerge not only as literary compositions but also as powerful vehicles of religious and political expression in the broader context of Chaghatay literary tradition.

Ethnolinguistic and cultural aspects of the medieval Turkic worldview based on the Dīwān Lughāt al-Turk (Compendium)

M.M. Kossybayev — 2026-06-30

This article explores the worldview of the medieval Turkic peoples from an ethnolinguistic and cultural perspective, based on Mahmud al-Kashgari's historical-lexicographical work Dīwān Lughāt al-Turk. The present study examines the conceptual foundations of the ancient Turkic worldview, traditions, belief systems, and social structure as reflected in linguistic data. The spiritual heritage and cultural code of the Turkic people is identified through semantic and cultural analysis of lexical units and paremiological forms (proverbs and sayings). Employing methodologies drawn from the disciplines of ethnolinguistics and cognitive linguistics, the research proffers a scholarly interpretation of the mentality and worldview structure of medieval Turkic society as revealed through language. The objective of the present study is twofold: firstly, to contribute to the understanding of Turkic culture through language, and secondly, to define the national conceptual sphere.

Based on the linguistic data from the Dīwān Lughāt al-Turk, this study explores the ethnolinguistic and cultural dimensions of the medieval Turkic worldview, with a particular focus on the conceptualization of space and religious continuity. The analysis reveals that early Turkic spatial orientation – both vertical and horizontal – was deeply rooted in ancient traditions, adaptation to the natural environment, and nomadic animal husbandry, as vividly demonstrated by Mahmud al-Kashgari’s pioneering circular map. Furthermore, this cartographic and onomastic heritage reflects a sophisticated "linguistic model of the world" that underscores the spatial consciousness of Turkic tribes. Alongside these geographical insights, the paper examines the spiritual universe of the medieval Turks, highlighting a harmonious synthesis where foundational Tengriist beliefs seamlessly converged with Islamic principles. Ultimately, the Dīwān serves as a crucial bridge of spiritual continuity, offering invaluable insights into the historical development of Turkic cultural identity and ethnolinguistic heritage.

The history of the study of the dramaturgy of the Karachay and Balkar peoples

A.K. Shapauov — 2026-06-30

This article examines the historiography of Karachay-Balkar drama, its development as an independent scholarly field, its chronology, key trends, and the contributions of scholars who have studied it. Scholarly works emphasize that Karachay-Balkar drama is an important field in literary, theater, and art studies of the peoples of the North Caucasus. It is noted that national theater and performing arts, reflecting the historical and cultural identity and worldview of the people, played a significant role in shaping their historical consciousness and awakening their national spirit, and have also been studied from the perspective of a new scholarly paradigm. Beginning in the 1920s and 1930s, Karachay-Balkar drama developed under the influence of Soviet ideology. During this period, a large number of plays appeared that glorified the ideas of the new society and the working man. At the same time, it is emphasized that themes of national identity and cultural heritage were transmitted indirectly. In the period following independence, drama received a new impetus: central themes became national identity, the restoration of historical justice, the fate of the people, questions of cultural continuity, and their artistic embodiment on stage. The formation and development of Karachay-Balkar drama, its artistic genre, thematic, and ideological features in the Soviet and post-Soviet periods, have also become the subject of scholarly research. The connection between the origins of Balkar drama and folk oral tradition and epic traditions, as well as the reflection of folklore motifs in stage works, are analyzed in detail. The plot models of heroic songs and folk tales formed the basis of the first dramatic works, shaping their ideological and aesthetic foundation. Furthermore, it is shown that Karachay-Balkar drama, in its artistic exploration, linguistic structure, and theatrical approaches, developed in harmony with the literary traditions of related Turkic peoples. The article also notes that in recent years, young researchers and literary critics have been examining contemporary Karachay-Balkar drama in the context of cultural globalization, the preservation of national identity, and issues of historical memory. Such research allows for a new understanding of contemporary trends in the development of national theater and places regional literature within the broader context of Turkic and Russian literatures. Thus, it is concluded that the study of Karachay-Balkar drama is a relevant research area, opening the way to an understanding not only of the literary development of one people but also of the cultural and spiritual evolution of the entire Caucasus region.

A General Overview of Landscape Naming Features in Turkic Toponymy: Based on Oronyms in Yakut, Bashkort, Turkish, and Kazakh Languages

A.K. Karaman — 2026-06-30

Historical events took place on our planet in different epochs, which influenced the appearance of geographical names related to the Turkic languages. In modern civilization, toponyms are being updated with new names. Toponyms are an indispensable element of the development of society and humanity as a whole. Of course, it is necessary to study toponyms in order to understand how they arise, develop, change, what contributes to this process and what they mean. The landscape dictionary contains the words: land, river, mountain, plateau, lake, hill, ridge, rock, forest, grove, and sand. Oronyms belong to a group of toponyms that include names of landforms. This group covers the names of mountains, peaks, plains, depressions, caves, ravines, and other geomorphological features. Turkic toponyms are an important data source for linguistic analysis and reflect the peculiarities of the development of the language, material and spiritual culture of Turkic peoples who inhabited certain areas. The relevance of studying the toponymic system is that it allows determine the evolution of linguistic phenomena and identify the features of the material and spiritual culture of the people, typical for a certain period of its development. Toponymy contains invaluable information on the history of language, dialectology, historical geography and ethnography.

The article proves that the toponyms in Turkish, Kazakh, Bashkir and Yakut, which belong to the Turkic languages, testify to common historical, ethnic and geographical ties. Toponyms in these languages are not only geographical names, but also a mirror of the historical memory and spiritual heritage of each people. The common word elements and semantic similarities of the Turkic people indicate their ancient kinship.

Zoomorphic proverbs in the Armenian-Kipchak language: their semantic and structural features

B.S. Zhiyembay — 2026-06-30

The article aims to provide a comprehensive description of the linguocultural, structural, and semantic traits of zoomorphic proverbs and sayings in the Armenian-Kipchak language written in Armenian script.

The Armenian-Kipchaks were Kipchaks who adopted the Armenian Gregorian branch of Christianity as their faith; today, both historians and linguists adhere to the term "Armenian-Kipchak" to describe this community. Historical sources indicate that the native speakers of the Armenian-Kipchak language referred to their own tongue as "khypchakh tili" (the Kipchak language), "bizdin til" (our language), or "tatarsha" (in Tatar). Currently, 112 extant written monuments composed in the Armenian-Kipchak language, dating from 1521 to 1669, constitute an extensive corpus of scholarly manuscripts. This vast written heritage conclusively underscores the profound cultural and historical significance of the Armenian-Kipchak monuments.

This paremiological corpus, dating from the Middle Ages, constitutes a significant source for reconstructing the social experience, worldview and linguistic system of the Gregorian Kipchaks of that era. The research material includes paremias containing animal names, along with their equivalents in other Turkic languages. The study applies a combination of descriptive analysis, historical and comparative methods, structural-semantic approaches, and statistical analysis designed to determine patterns of frequency and usage of the proverbs under consideration.

The analysis of the metaphorical models, syntactic structures, and semantic cores of the proverbs, alongside frequency data, highlights the central role of zoomorphic imagery in articulating the ethical norms, behavioural patterns, and social values of the Armenian-Kipchak community. The findings demonstrate that Armenian-Kipchak paremiology is closely integrated into the broader pan-Turkic tradition and is marked by a considerable degree of cultural and cognitive importance.

The influence of new media on political culture in Kazakhstan

Zh.M. Tolen — 2026-06-30

In the modern digital era, new media platforms have significantly changed political culture and citizen participation in different countries around the world. Kazakhstan, which has a unique socio-political structure, is also experiencing changes in political participation, especially among young people. The widespread use of social media has influenced political activity and public opinion, causing significant changes in the country's political culture. This article examines the impact of new media on the political culture of Kazakhstan, including the formation of political knowledge, values, and political activity of citizens. The focus is on youth activism, trust in public institutions, and the dynamics of civic participation. Drawing on the latest research and statistics, the article analyzes how digital platforms are becoming spaces for political expression and mobilization, how they influence the perception of governance and social issues, and the growing role of social media as a tool for political participation. Through content analysis of the political discourse of Kazakhstanis on social networks, the article examines the frequency of political content, its subject matter (supportive, critical, neutral), and forms of participation (likes, reposts, comments).

The European Union’s Experience in Ensuring Cybersecurity: A Comparative Approach and Opportunities for Kazakhstan

B.S. Segizbayeva — 2026-06-30

In the context of globalization and accelerated digitalization, cybersecurity has become a strategic priority directly affecting national security, economic development, and the social stability of states. Cyber threats are increasingly complex and transnational in nature, with growing attacks on government institutions, financial systems, critical infrastructure, as well as social and information networks. These challenges highlight the necessity of building a comprehensive and sustainable cybersecurity system that integrates legal regulation, institutional mechanisms, human capacity building, and international cooperation.

The European Union has developed a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity based on key strategic and regulatory documents such as the EU Cybersecurity Strategy, the NIS Directive, and the GDPR. The European model combines preventive measures, institutional responsibility, data protection, respect for citizens’ digital rights, and the development of specialized agencies and research centers. Particular emphasis is placed on international cooperation, including collaboration with NATO and the United Nations, viewing cyber threats as a global issue.

The aim of this article is to conduct a comparative analysis of the EU’s experience and identify opportunities for its adaptation within the context of Kazakhstan. The study applies methods of content analysis of strategic documents, comparative analysis of institutional models, and a SWOT analysis of Kazakhstan’s national cybersecurity system.

The findings demonstrate that Kazakhstan should prioritize institutional modernization, enhance interagency coordination, improve the training of specialists in information security, and adopt international standards. An equally important task is fostering a national culture of cybersecurity, which involves improving digital literacy, engaging the private sector, and involving the academic community.

Thus, the EU’s experience can serve as a model for shaping a sustainable and effective cyber policy in Kazakhstan, strengthening national resilience to global cyber threats and ensuring balanced development in the era of digital transformation.

Factors of terrorist threats in Central Asian countries

M. Tuleyev — 2026-06-30

The purpose of this study was to identify the degree of terrorist threat in Central Asia. The study was based on materials from The Jamestown Foundation Global Research & Analysis, Reuters, The Guardian, Xinhua, and George Washington University. The research employed methods of content analysis, structural-functional analysis, and comparative analysis.

The results revealed that Central Asian countries face several factors that contribute to citizen’s involvement in terrorist activities. Among these factors is living below the national poverty line, which, depending on the country, affects between 2.8% and 33.2% of the population. In addition, the region relies heavily on commodity trade, making it highly vulnerable to external geopolitical crises. Central Asia is also characterized by political instability, including authoritarian governance tendencies, border conflicts, dynastic succession of power, and social inequality.

In this context, the need to monitor the dynamics of social processes and factors contributing to the emergence of international terrorism in Central Asian countries underscores the relevance of this study. The absence of effective mechanisms for interaction between society and state authorities regarding the development and forms of religious life creates certain risks of destabilization in the region.

In the short term, local destabilization may manifest in various forms of extremist activity, ranging from terrorist attacks to mass riots. Such actions may be organized by radical religious and terrorist groups, and similar incidents are already occurring. Strengthening cooperation among the concerned countries and establishing national and supranational entities aimed at narrowing the social base of terrorist organizations will help maintain control over the expanding activities of terrorist actors. Governments in the region are implementing national-level measures to counter terrorist threats. As a result, Central Asian governments have developed mutual understanding regarding this challenge, and the measures taken are enhancing the region’s resilience to terrorism.

Deep Fake as a New Phenomenon of Political Information War: A Political Review

A.D. Kaldybekova — 2026-06-30

In today's information age, new digital technologies have made it impossible to discriminate between legitimate and fraudulent media. The rise of deepfakes is one of the factors that has intensified and compounded this problem. They are hyper-realistic films of people talking and doing things that have never happened before, thanks to artificial intelligence (AI). Deepfakes are easily and swiftly circulating as a result of technological advancement and social media enhancement, which has a negative impact on society.

Deepfake news is becoming a serious problem that endangers public discourse, human rights, and democracy. It threatens national security and weakens citizens' trust in the media and institutions by disseminating propaganda and meddling in elections. This article examines the theoretical and historical aspects of the phenomena, as well as their types and purposes. Deepfakes are discussed as part of the information and political conflict in the main part of the study, and various international political cases are provided. Furthermore, an international experience in fighting deepfakes was examined, and some prevention and solution techniques were recommended

C5+1 Initiative: a General Scientific Systems approach, status, development and prospects

A.B. Ibrayeva — 2026-06-30

In the article, the author explores the important directions of realization of the C5+1 initiative as a nationwide approach of the U.S. government to Central Asia with the joint participation of the governments of five Central Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan). On the basis of system analysis, the nature of international relations and the C5+1 initiative of the C5+1 diplomatic platform are demonstrated, which contribute to the realization of priority areas and prevention of problems of regional stability and security in Central Asia. As a result, the conclusion is given on the priority of further research in the development of the C5+1 initiative in international relations within the framework of the C5+1 platform. At the end, the author proposes to substantiate the theoretical and practical significance of transformational change for the future. Using predictive methods of research, to model and scientifically substantiate a prospective scenario and model of possible effective solutions in terms of the implementation of the C5+1 initiative as a tool to ensure and achieve the strengthening of regional stability in Central Asia.

The Concept and Essence of Intercultural Communication in the Context of International Relations

A.T. Segizbay — 2026-06-30

This article examines the concept, essence, and key characteristics of intercultural communication in the context of contemporary international relations. The relevance of the study is determined by the growing importance of intercultural interaction under conditions of globalization, increasing international mobility, expanding cultural exchanges, and the emergence of new forms of international cooperation. Intercultural communication is analyzed as an important mechanism of interaction among states, societies, and cultures that contributes to strengthening international dialogue, promoting cultural diplomacy, and reducing the potential for conflict in world politics. The purpose of the study is to analyze the essence of intercultural communication, identify its significance within the system of international relations, and examine the specific features of its functioning in the multicultural society of Kazakhstan.

The article reviews the main scientific approaches to the study of intercultural communication presented in the works of both foreign and domestic scholars. Particular attention is paid to the influence of culture on international interaction, the role of intercultural dialogue in fostering cooperation among peoples and states, and the concept of soft power as an instrument of foreign policy influence. The study also analyzes the factors contributing to effective intercultural communication, as well as the major barriers, including ethnocentrism, cultural stereotypes, and differences in communicative models.

Based on the analysis of the Kazakhstani experience, the study demonstrates that a multicultural and multilingual environment, policies of interethnic harmony, the development of cultural dialogue, and support for linguistic diversity create favorable conditions for establishing effective mechanisms of intercultural interaction. The findings suggest that intercultural communication serves as an important factor of social stability, international cooperation, and sustainable development in the contemporary globalized world.

Sport as a soft power instrument in shaping Kazakhstan's international image

M. Dyussembekova — 2026-06-30

In the context of contemporary globalization, the international image of states is shaped not only through diplomatic and economic policies, but also through the instruments of soft power. In the international arena, soft power plays an increasingly significant role in forming a positive image of a country and is implemented through various channels. This article examines sport as one of the key instruments of soft power capable of effectively transmitting the cultural, social, and political valүes of independent Kazakhstan to the global community. Based on empirical data, the study demonstrates that sporting achievements play an important role in shaping the national brand and strengthening Kazakhstan’s reputation in the international arena.

The article analyzes the conceptual foundations of the role of sport in soft power policy and its contribution to the formation of a state’s international image, alongside a review of relevant academic literature. Kazakhstan’s sporting achievements are examined through two case studies, which identify both the successes and shortcomings of the country’s participation in the Summer Olympic Games and formulate recommendations based on public opinion. In addition, the article explores the impact of victories achieved by Kazakhstani athletes at world championships and assesses the role of prominent athletes, such as Gennady Golovkin, in shaping a positive international image of the country. The current state of this sphere is analyzed, practical recommendations and future projections are proposed, and the effectiveness of sport as a soft power instrument is evaluated, including models for promoting cultural and moral values on the international stage.