Problems of Social Integration for Repatriates in Kazakhstan

Abstract

The integration of repatriates in Kazakhstan's society has recently been the subject of much debate in the government, media, and general public. This study explores challenges associated with the social integration (i.e., adaptation) of Kazakh repatriates and provides broad recommendations for how to ameliorate them. The challenges faced by repatriates are now recognized as being highly important to not only the repatriates themselves but also Kazakh society as a whole. In light of Kazakhstan's potential labor shortage, it is in the country's economic interests to attract foreign Kazakhs and Uzbeks who can participate in the labor market. In this situation, national security should be designated a priority. Further, to accommodate a large-scale influx of foreign Kazakhs, the nation must consider what forms of social policy are appropriate to meet the needs of this group. This consideration is necessary because presently, the state can afford only a small quota for resettlement and living expenses.