Understanding corruption in Kazakhstan within a legal framework: A systemic social challenge

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Abstract

This article addresses a pressing contemporary issue — the main areas of research on corruption. It examines the ongoing scholarly debate regarding the role of the state in combating corruption and highlights the destructive impact of corruption on a country’s economic development. The study underscores the necessity of taking effective countermeasures while also acknowledging the existing gap in comprehensive research on practical methods of combating this phenomenon. This article explores corruption in Kazakhstan as more than just a problem of individual misconduct or weak institutions. It is presented as a deep-rooted social phenomenon that shapes and distorts everyday life across economic, political, and cultural spheres. In Kazakhstan, corruption not only undermines public trust but also reinforces inequality by skewing the distribution of resources and opportunities. The paper argues that addressing corruption requires more than official statements or surface-level reforms; it demands an honest recognition of its systemic nature. By framing corruption as a force that penetrates social, moral, and economic foundations, the article highlights the need for broader societal transformation. Only by reshaping these foundations can Kazakhstan create the conditions for genuine progress in building a fairer, more just society.

Keywords: Corruption, Social State, Shadow Economy, Counteraction to Corruption

Authors’ individual contribution: Conceptualization — L.B., N.B., and D.K.; Methodology — L.B., N.B., and D.K.; Investigation — L.B., N.B., and D.K.; Resources — L.B., N.B., and D.K.; Data Curation — L.B., N.B., and D.K.; Writing — Original Draft — L.B., N.B., and D.K.; Writing — Review & Editing — L.B., N.B., and D.K.

Declaration of conflicting interests: The Authors declare that there is no conflict of interest.

JEL Classification: D73, H83, K42

Received: 26.12.2024
Revised: 29.05.2025; 09.10.2025; 18.12.2025
Accepted: 29.12.2025
Published online: 30.12.2025

How to cite this paper: Bimendiyeva, L., Bekkairov, N., & Kenzhegalieva, D. (2025). Understanding corruption in Kazakhstan within a legal framework: A systemic social challenge. Corporate Law & Governance Review, 7(4), 90–98. https://doi.org/10.22495/clgrv7i4p9