Building resilience: Tackling socioeconomic vulnerability in Kazakhstan's communities

Abstract

This study explores resilience as a counterbalance to socioeconomic vulnerability in Kazakhstan, emphasizing both macro- and micro-level factors that shape the capacity of individuals and communities to adapt to adversity. At the macro level, the research examines systemic structures, including employment policies, income distribution, environmental equity, and the adequacy of social infrastructure. At the micro level, it analyzes individual and community capacities, such as access to education, social networks, and psychological well-being. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study integrates quantitative data from 2,900 respondents across five regions of Kazakhstan with qualitative insights from focus group discussions involving policymakers, social workers, and community leaders. Findings reveal critical challenges, including financial insufficiency of social benefits, limited access to assistance, housing insecurity, and employment barriers for caregivers and people with disabilities. These structural vulnerabilities are compounded by inflation and systemic inequalities, limiting the resilience of vulnerable populations. However, the study highlights key resilience-building mechanisms, such as flexible employment options, indexed social benefits, improved rural infrastructure, and community-based support systems. Policy recommendations focus on creating a national resilience strategy that integrates macro- and micro-level interventions, fosters equitable opportunities, and enhances individual and collective capacities to thrive. These findings contribute to global discussions on resilience and vulnerability reduction and offer practical insights for policymakers.