Central Asia Adapts to Changing Migration Trends
Migration Trends in Kazakhstan: Over 9,000 People from Central Asia Settled in 2023
In 2023, Kazakhstan saw a significant influx of over 9,000 people from Central Asian countries, with many opting to settle permanently in the country. This trend is expected to continue in the coming year, according to an analytical article in Kazinform.
The majority of migrants from the Kyrgyz Republic chose to settle in the Almaty border regions, while those from Uzbekistan were concentrated in the Mangystau and Almaty Regions. Migrants from Tajikistan primarily settled in Almaty and the Karaganda Region, while arrivals from Turkmenistan were registered in Mangystau and Pavlodar regions.
Caress Schenk, an associate professor of political science at Nazarbayev University, highlighted the potential risks associated with migration, particularly the securitization of migration as a security threat. She emphasized that perceiving migrants as security risks could exacerbate the situation.
Recent years have seen a shift in migration patterns, with citizens of Central Asian countries increasingly choosing destinations like Russia, Türkiye, South Korea, Europe, and the UK for better livelihoods and higher wages. This diversification of destinations reflects changing migration trends in the region.
Kazakhstan has implemented changes to its migration policies, including new registration rules for foreigners and the launch of the migration portal, enbek.kz. The country aims to ensure the recognition of migrants’ rights, protect national interests, and streamline migration processes through updated information.
The country has expressed interest in attracting specific migrant groups, such as highly skilled individuals and ethnic Kazakhs seeking to return to their homeland. The Ata Zholy card, which offers simplified entry to Kazakhstan for ethnic Kazakhs, has been issued to families from various countries.
Despite shifting attitudes towards Central Asian migrants globally, Kazakhstan has refrained from implementing restrictions and successfully managed the influx of migrants in 2023. However, experts caution that the perception of migration as a security threat remains a significant risk in the migration process.
Overall, Kazakhstan’s migration trends reflect the changing landscape of migration in Central Asia, with the country adapting its policies to accommodate the diverse needs of migrants moving to and settling in the country.
