Citizens’ participation in electoral processes as the main factor in the formation of democracy in the Republic of Kazakhstan

This article addresses the issue of insufficient citizen participation in electoral processes in the Republic of Kazakhstan amid growing public demand for political activity (political absenteeism). In the context of the country’s democratic development, citizen engagement in electoral processes is a crucial factor in the strengthening of democratic institutions. The study analyzes the key reasons for the low electoral turnout of Kazakhstani citizens, including insufficient legal awareness and literacy, mistrust of the electoral system, the influence of socioeconomic factors, and the lack of effective mechanisms to stimulate civic participation. Solutions are considered, including modernizing electoral legislation, increasing the transparency of election procedures, strengthening the role of civil society, and strengthening public oversight of government agencies. Particular attention is paid to a theoretical understanding of democratic processes in Kazakhstan through the lens of the interrelationship between the concepts of “democracy,” “meritocracy,” and “ochlocracy.” It concludes that certain electoral qualifications need to be revised to find a balance between democratic principles and the requirements for the qualitative composition of the electoral corps. It is concluded that it is necessary to improve legal literacy among citizens of Kazakhstan in order to avoid the election of demagogues and ineffective managers to elected positions.

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