What is Kazakhstan?
Kazakhstan is a vast, landlocked country located in Central Asia, bordered by Russia to the north, China to the east, and several Central Asian countries to the south. It is the world’s largest landlocked country and the ninth-largest country in the world by land area. Known for its steppes, mountains, and vast deserts, Kazakhstan boasts rich natural resources, including oil and gas.
Administrative Divisions
Kazakhstan is divided into 14 regions and 3 cities of national significance (Almaty, Nur-Sultan, and Shymkent). The country is further subdivided into administrative districts called rayons.
Currency Details
- Currency Name: Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)
- Symbol: ₸
- Subunit: Tenge (1 KZT = 100 tiyn)
- Central Bank: National Bank of Kazakhstan
Type of Government
Kazakhstan is a presidential republic. The President is both the head of state and the head of government, holding significant power. The country has a multi-party system, and the legislative and judicial branches work in tandem with the executive branch.
Detailed Hierarchy of Government Roles
Executive Branch Hierarchy
| Position | Role Description | Power & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| President | Head of State and Government | Holds executive power, leads foreign policy, and ensures national security. |
| Prime Minister | Head of Government | Leads the government, implements laws, and oversees ministries. |
| Ministers | Heads of government departments | Manage specific sectors like defense, education, and finance. |
| Vice Ministers | Assist Ministers in their duties | Handle specific aspects within ministries. |
Legislative Branch Hierarchy
| Position | Role Description | Power & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Parliament of Kazakhstan | Bicameral legislature | Makes laws, approves budgets, and oversees the executive branch. |
| Mazhilis (Lower House) | 107 members, elected every 5 years | Initiates legislation, ratifies treaties, and handles budget matters. |
| Senate (Upper House) | 47 members, 15 appointed by the President, 32 elected | Reviews legislation passed by the Mazhilis, approves constitutional amendments. |
| Chairperson of the Mazhilis | Leads the Lower House | Ensures legislative order, represents the Parliament in domestic and international matters. |
| Chairperson of the Senate | Leads the Upper House | Oversees Senate proceedings, ensures compliance with the Constitution. |
Judicial Branch Hierarchy
| Position | Role Description | Power & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Supreme Court of Kazakhstan | Highest judicial authority in Kazakhstan | Interprets the Constitution and reviews legal cases. |
| Constitutional Council | Ensures laws comply with the Constitution | Reviews legislation to ensure it aligns with the Constitution. |
| Regional Courts | Handle regional cases and appeals | Act as courts of first instance for criminal and civil cases. |
| District Courts | Handle cases at the local level | Preside over civil, criminal, and administrative matters. |
| Judges | Oversee trials and legal proceedings | Ensure justice is served in accordance with the law. |
International Memberships
- United Nations (UN)
- Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU)
- Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)
- World Trade Organization (WTO)
- CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States)
Military Structure
Kazakhstan’s military is composed of the Army, Air Force, and Air Defense, as well as special forces. The President serves as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.
- Military Branches: Kazakh Army, Air Force, Air Defense, National Guard
- National Guard: Operates under the Ministry of Internal Affairs and provides internal security.
- Military Cooperation: Kazakhstan is a member of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO).
Secret Agencies
- National Security Committee (KNB): Responsible for counterintelligence, counterterrorism, and maintaining national security.
- Kazakhstan Intelligence Agency (KAD): Handles foreign intelligence operations.
- Ministry of Internal Affairs: Oversees police and internal security.
Stock Markets
- Stock Exchange: Kazakhstan Stock Exchange (KASE)
- Key Indexes: KASE Index
- Analyzed by: Economists, financial analysts, and statisticians.
Emergency Numbers
- General Emergency: 112
- Police: 102
- Fire: 101
- Medical Emergency: 103
SWOT Analysis of Kazakhstan
Strengths
- Rich natural resources (oil, gas, and minerals).
- Strong military and geopolitical position in Central Asia.
- Growing economy with investments in infrastructure and energy.
Weaknesses
- Dependence on oil and gas exports.
- Political stability concerns and limited political freedoms.
Opportunities
- Economic diversification and growth in non-energy sectors.
- Increased regional cooperation within the EAEU and SCO.
Threats
- Regional instability and tensions with neighboring countries.
- Economic vulnerability due to fluctuating global oil prices.
Additional Information
- Official Language: Kazakh (official), Russian (widely spoken)
- Time Zone: Kazakhstan Time (GMT +6 to +7)
- National Anthem: “Менің Қазақстаным” (“My Kazakhstan”)