Internal migration in Kazakhstan: urbanization, regional inequality and economic development
Authors
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Анар Толамисова
Zhetysu University named after I. Zhansugurov, Taldykorgan, Kazakhstan
-
Saltanat Baidybekova
Zhetysu University named after I. Zhansugurov, Taldykorgan, Kazakhstan
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Stefan Dyrka
W. Korfanty Upper Silesian Academy, Katowice, Poland
-
Raikhan Turysbekova
Zhetysu University named after I. Zhansugurov,Taldykorgan, Kazakhstan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31489/3136-0807/2026-1-1/21-33Keywords:
internal migration, urbanization, regional inequality, regional development, economic development, labor market, human capital, socio-economic impact, urban infrastructure, migration policyAbstract
The purpose of this study is to comprehensively examine the current state and development dynamics of internal migration processes in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The research analyzes the main directions of urbanization, the factors driving population concentration from rural areas to large cities and economically active regions, as well as disparities in socio-economic development across regions. The study also investigates the impact of migration flows on regional economic growth, the concentration of production
potential, and increasing pressure on urban infrastructure. Economic and statistical analysis methods were employed. The empirical results indicate that internal migration has contributed to the concentration of labor resources and innovative potential in major economic centers, the expansion of the service sector, and increased labor productivity. Furthermore, the study reveals a structural relationship between internal migration, urbanization, and regional divergence. The findings highlight the need for a balanced regional policy, sustainable rural development, and effective management of the consequences of urbanization. They also emphasize the importance of improving internal migration governance mechanisms, ensuring balanced regional development, and modernizing urban infrastructure. The results can be used to incorporate
migration factors into national and regional development policies and to formulate practical recommendations aimed at reducing socio-economic disparities between regions and supporting the country’s long-term economic development.
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