Features of state control in the media sphere and its influence on the development of regional media

The study aims to analyse the features of state regulation in the information sphere of Kazakhstan and to assess its impact on the development and functioning of regional media. The study identifies key stages in the evolution of national information policy and the mechanisms through which it influences regional media outlets. A sociological survey involving 100 representatives from regional authorities across six regions of Kazakhstan – Akmola, Aktobe, Almaty, Atyrau, Karaganda and Kostanay – helps establish the geographical and structural features of the impact of state policy. In-depth interviews highlight three primary functions of regional media: political communication, cooperation with government bodies and educational outreach. The evaluation results show that the public oversight function received the highest rating (7.9), while educational activity scored the lowest (5.2). The survey further indicates perceptual differences regarding the role of mass media between senior officials and mid-level civil servants, indicating internal differentiation in approaches to information policy. The findings suggest that in the digital age, the information policy of Kazakhstan must strike a balance between information security and freedom of expression. The practical value lies in the potential application of these results for refining information policy amidst ongoing digital transformations.