THE INVERSE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN NATURAL RESOURCES AND HUMAN CAPITAL: EVIDENCE FROM TURKIC STATES

This study investigates the relationship between natural resource dependence and human capital development in the Turkic states, a phenomenon often termed the “resource curse.” Using World Bank data on resource rents as a percentage of GDP, we analyze how heavy reliance on hydrocarbon wealth can limit intellectual development and economic diversification. The research highlights differences across Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkey and provides practical policy recommendations for mitigating resource dependence.