Multiparty system without ideology in Kazakhstan: Analysis of ideologems, “Law on Political Parties” and specifics of mass consciousness

Abstract

This study examines Kazakhstan's multi-party system, analyzing the ideologies of existing parties, political party legislation, and the specifics of political culture in the republic. The authors claim that modern Kazakh political parties lack distinct ideological foundations, as they have not formulated clear ideological positions. The ideological function of the country's parties has weakened due to the previous leadership's emphasis on maintaining parties in power without fostering genuine ideological diversity, such as right- or left-wing parties. Surveys conducted by the Institute of Philosophy, Political Science, and Religious Studies in May–June 2021 and May–June 2022 highlight the characteristics of mass political consciousness in Kazakhstan. A survey of 3,000 respondents revealed that, both before and after the events of Sanguinary January 2022, the stance of state authorities played a decisive role in shaping political views. Additionally, strict requirements for creating and registering political parties reinforce the political status quo. The ideologies promoted by the authorities fail to address the interests of various social groups and remain disconnected from public concerns. According to sociological surveys, contemporary issues are often overlooked in favor of narratives centered on the Soviet or traditional past. As a result, the existing multi-party system does not provide ideological representation for either loyalist or protest sentiments.