by Talgat Kabdygali
Post-Soviet countries continue to grapple with their ideological identity, often finding themselves at a crossroads. Friedrich Engels noted that the state emerged to manage conflicts resulting from economic inequality, suggesting that a society without internal conflicts might require a concrete state ideology rather than mere political maneuvering. This ambiguity reflects broader questions about national identity and governance in the post-Soviet era.
The fall of the Soviet Union led to a period of deideologization, with state ideologies being viewed as relics of an anti-democratic past. However, this deideologization was more of a façade, masking underlying ideological currents that continue to influence governance. Kazakhstan’s constitution declares the absence of a state ideology, promoting pluralism. Yet, in practice, the government has pushed “national values,” signaling an attempt to craft an ideological narrative. For instance, the recent emphasis on promoting Kazakh culture and language highlights a subtle ideological shift. This push can be seen in state-sponsored programs and cultural policies aimed at reinforcing a national identity distinct from its Soviet past while aligning with the ruling elite’s vision.
This ideological shift serves a dual purpose. On one hand, it aims to foster national unity and pride, essential for state-building in a diverse society. On the other hand, it provides a tool for the ruling elite to consolidate power by defining acceptable cultural and ideological norms. This dual approach helps maintain a veneer of pluralism while subtly steering public discourse in a controlled direction.
The silent ideology prevalent in modern Kazakhstan revolves around the creation and consolidation of private capital. Privatization, a hallmark of post-Soviet economic reforms, was intended to boost economic efficiency but led to significant social stratification. Privatization created a new elite class, deeply entwined with political power. In Kazakhstan, the privatization process has entrenched a powerful elite. For instance, Timur Kulibayev, a prominent businessman and son-in-law of former President Nursultan Nazarbayev, epitomizes this elite class. His business empire spans key sectors like energy and banking, showcasing the overlap between economic power and political influence. The privatization process enabled the transfer of state assets to private hands, often benefiting those with political connections.
Kulibayev’s rise to prominence illustrates the broader pattern of elite formation in post-Soviet states. Born in 1966, Kulibayev graduated from the Moscow State University with a degree in Economics. He began his career in banking before moving into the energy sector, eventually becoming one of Kazakhstan’s wealthiest and most influential figures. His marriage to Dinara Nazarbayeva, the daughter of the former president, further cemented his status within the ruling elite. Kulibayev’s influence extends beyond business; he is also a key player in Kazakhstan’s political landscape, exemplifying the intertwining of economic and political power that characterizes the country’s post-Soviet development.
Duality of thought, or “doublethink,” reflects the contradictory existence of ideological narratives among different societal groups. This duality can lead to significant societal alienation. The January 2022 unrest in Kazakhstan, sparked by fuel price hikes, quickly morphed into broader anti-government protests. The government’s response, involving both crackdowns and promises of reform, highlighted the contradictory nature of its approach. On one hand, the government promised to address public grievances; on the other hand, it employed repressive measures to quell dissent.
Kazakhstan’s efforts to attract foreign investment and modernize its economy are often at odds with its authoritarian governance. For instance, while the country promotes itself as an investment-friendly destination, issues like corruption and lack of transparency remain significant hurdles. This contradiction is evident in the government’s simultaneous calls for economic openness and stringent control over political expression.
These contradictions reflect deeper systemic issues within Kazakhstan’s governance model. The state’s need to project stability and openness to attract foreign investment is undermined by its repressive tactics, which create an unpredictable business environment. This duality hampers long-term economic development and fosters public cynicism towards state institutions.
In many post-Soviet states, a disconnect exists between the state and society, often exacerbated by the actions of the ruling elite. A politicized minority plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse and influencing the majority. In Kazakhstan, political bloggers like Serikzhan Mambetalin have gained significant followings, using social media to critique government policies and mobilize public opinion. Mambetalin, a former member of Parliament and outspoken critic of the government, has become a prominent figure in Kazakhstan’s digital opposition. He frequently addresses issues such as corruption, economic inequality, and human rights abuses on his social media platforms. During the January 2022 protests, Mambetalin’s posts and live streams provided real-time updates and mobilized support, illustrating the power of digital activism in shaping public discourse.
The rise of political bloggers reflects the changing landscape of political communication in post-Soviet states. As traditional media remains under state control, social media provides a platform for dissenting voices, increasing public awareness and engagement. However, this also poses risks, as the state may respond with increased surveillance and censorship, leading to a cat-and-mouse game between authorities and activists. For example, following the January protests, Mambetalin and other prominent bloggers faced intensified scrutiny and threats of legal action, highlighting the precarious nature of digital activism in authoritarian contexts.
In today’s information age, media manipulation and disinformation pose significant challenges. Developing critical thinking and media literacy is crucial for countering these threats. Educational programs aimed at fostering critical thinking and media literacy can help citizens navigate the complex information landscape. Organizations like IREX have implemented media literacy programs in post-Soviet countries, including Kazakhstan. These programs teach citizens to critically evaluate information sources, identify biases, and understand the impact of media on public opinion. By equipping citizens with these skills, such programs aim to build a more informed and resilient society.
Media literacy initiatives are essential for combating the spread of misinformation and fostering a more engaged citizenry. By enhancing critical thinking skills, these programs help individuals discern fact from fiction, reducing the impact of propaganda and disinformation. This, in turn, can lead to a more vibrant and participatory democracy, where citizens are better equipped to hold their leaders accountable.
Addressing the ideological challenges in post-Soviet countries requires a multifaceted approach. Strengthening media literacy, promoting critical thinking, and encouraging fair resource distribution are essential steps toward creating a more equitable and informed society. By overcoming media influence and manipulation, these nations can move toward sustainable development and a cohesive national identity. Such efforts will help bridge the gap between state and society, fostering greater trust and collaboration in the pursuit of common goals.