RELIGIOUS IDENTITY: THE EXPERIENCE OF INDEPENDENT KAZAKHSTAN

The article focuses on the study of the religious landscape of Kazakhstan as an important factor in shaping national identity and cultural memory. The authors examine the dynamics of the development of religious denominations in the country since independence, emphasizing the relationship between religion, citizens’ self-identification, and nation-building processes. The analysis is based on numerous sociological studies conducted over the years, as well as statistical data from governmental bodies.The novelty of the work lies in its attempt to consider religion as a foundation for studying national identity in Kazakhstan’s multi-ethnic and multi-confessional society. The research shows that since the collapse of the USSR, the number of believers in the country has significantly increased, as evidenced by the growth in the number of religious organizations and places of worship, along with changes in demographic composition. The article highlights the influence of migration processes and the return of ethnic Kazakhs, which contributed to the increase in the proportion of Muslims.The study also addresses issues related to religious extremism, stressing the importance of state policy in ensuring tolerance and neutrality. Despite being a secular state, Kazakhstan has become an example of interreligious dialogue. The authors conclude that religion continues to play a key role in shaping national identity, particularly within the context of Islamic traditions.