Kazakhstan: general information about country, happiness index 2024

World Happiness Report for Kazakhstan 2024

  • Overall Happiness Rank Kazakhstan: 49
  • Happiness Score Kazakhstan:6.188

Happiness is a subjective concept that has long been debated by philosophers, psychologists, and economists alike. However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in quantifying happiness and using it as a measure of a nation’s overall well-being. This is where the concept of the Happiness Index comes into play.

What is the Happiness Index?

The Happiness Index is a measure that attempts to quantify the overall happiness and life satisfaction of a country’s population. It is based on the idea that traditional economic indicators, such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), do not fully capture the overall well-being of a society. The Happiness Index takes into account various factors that contribute to an individual’s sense of happiness and life satisfaction, including social support, freedom to make life choices, healthy life expectancy, and perceptions of corruption.

How is the Happiness Index Calculated?

The Happiness Index is calculated through a combination of subjective and objective data. The primary source of data is the Gallup World Poll, which is a survey conducted in over 160 countries. The survey asks respondents to rate their overall life satisfaction on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being the worst possible life and 10 being the best possible life.

In addition to the life satisfaction score, the Happiness Index also takes into account the following factors:

  1. GDP per capita: This is a measure of a country’s economic output and standard of living.
  2. Social support: This factor measures the extent to which individuals have supportive relationships and love in their lives.
  3. Healthy life expectancy: This is a measure of the number of years an individual is expected to live in good health.
  4. Freedom to make life choices: This factor measures the extent to which individuals are able to make decisions about their lives without external constraints.
  5. Generosity: This factor measures the extent to which individuals engage in charitable activities and donate to others.
  6. Perceptions of corruption: This factor measures the extent to which individuals perceive their society to be free from corruption.

These factors are weighted and combined to produce an overall Happiness Index score for each country.

What Does the Happiness Index Affect?

The Happiness Index has significant implications for policymaking and societal well-being. Countries with higher Happiness Index scores are generally considered to have better overall quality of life and well-being for their citizens. This can have positive impacts on various aspects of society, including:

  1. Economic productivity: Happier individuals tend to be more productive and engaged in their work, which can contribute to a country’s economic growth.
  2. Public health: Higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction are associated with better physical and mental health outcomes, which can reduce healthcare costs and improve overall well-being.
  3. Social cohesion: Societies with higher levels of happiness tend to have stronger social bonds and lower levels of conflict and crime.
  4. Environmental sustainability: Happier individuals may be more likely to engage in environmentally-friendly behaviors and support policies that promote sustainability.

By focusing on the factors that contribute to happiness and well-being, policymakers can develop strategies to improve the overall quality of life for their citizens. The Happiness Index provides a valuable tool for measuring progress and identifying areas where improvements can be made.

Short information

  • Abbreviation of Kazakhstan. KZ.

    Kazakhstan is a country located in Central Asia, with a presidential republic political structure. It is known for its diverse cultural heritage, including traditional music, arts, and cuisine. Kazakhstan has a growing economy, particularly in the industries of oil and natural resources.

  • Kazakhstan is the ninth largest country in the world in terms of land area.
  • The country is home to the Baikonur Cosmodrome, the world’s first and largest operational space launch facility.
  • Kazakhstan is a multi-ethnic and multicultural society, with a rich history that includes influences from nomadic tribes, Russian colonization, and Soviet rule.
  • Kazakhstan – A Comprehensive Overview

    Brief History: The territory of modern-day Kazakhstan has a rich history dating back to ancient nomadic civilizations. The region was home to various tribes and kingdoms, including the Scythians, Huns, and Turkic empires such as the Göktürks and Uyghurs. In the 13th century, Mongols under Genghis Khan conquered the area, and it later became part of the Golden Horde and other Mongol khanates.

    Kingdoms and Empires: The region was later controlled by various Turkic empires, including the Timurid Empire in the 15th century and the Kazakh Khanate in the 16th century. In the 18th century, the Kazakh Khanate fell under the influence of the Russian Empire, and Kazakhstan eventually became a part of the Soviet Union in the 1920s.

    Colonial Period: Kazakhstan was a part of the Russian Empire from the late 18th century until the establishment of the Soviet Union in 1917. The Russian conquest of the Kazakh steppe was a gradual process that involved military campaigns, economic domination, and the suppression of Kazakh resistance movements.

    Independence and Modern Era: Kazakhstan declared its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, following its collapse. The country faced significant economic and political challenges during the transition to independence, but has since emerged as a regional power with a rapidly growing economy fueled by its vast oil and gas reserves.

    Current Political Situation: Kazakhstan is a presidential republic with a strong executive branch. Nursultan Nazarbayev served as the country’s first president from independence until 2019, when he resigned and was succeeded by Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The political system is often criticized for its authoritarian tendencies and lack of genuine opposition.

    International Relations: Kazakhstan has maintained a multi-vector foreign policy, seeking to balance its relationships with Russia, China, and Western powers. The country has played an active role in regional organizations such as the Eurasian Economic Union and the Collective Security Treaty Organization.

    Human Development and Economy: Kazakhstan has a rapidly growing economy, driven largely by its vast oil and gas reserves. The country has made significant strides in human development, but income inequality and corruption remain challenges. Major industries include oil and gas, mining, agriculture, and manufacturing.

    Cultural Highlights: Kazakhstan has a rich cultural heritage influenced by its nomadic past and the diverse ethnic groups that have inhabited the region. The country is home to various indigenous cultures, including the Kazakhs, Russians, Uzbeks, and Uyghurs. Islam and Russian Orthodox Christianity are the dominant religions.

    Challenges and Opportunities: Kazakhstan faces challenges related to diversifying its economy beyond natural resources, addressing environmental issues, and strengthening democratic institutions. However, the country’s strategic location, abundant natural resources, and growing economic influence present significant opportunities for development and regional leadership.

    Travel Tips for Kazakhstan

    Essential Travel Tips:

    – Best times to visit: Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
    – Cultural etiquette: Respect local customs, dress modestly, and remove shoes when entering homes or mosques.
    – Safety precautions: Exercise caution in remote areas, avoid political protests, and keep valuables secure.
    – Must-see landmarks: Nur-Sultan (capital city), Almaty, Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, and Tamgaly rock carvings.
    – Culinary experiences: Try traditional dishes like beshbarmak (meat and noodle dish), kuurdak (fried meat and potatoes), and shubat (fermented camel’s milk).

Main facts

Location

Kazakhstan is a transcontinental country located in Central Asia, stretching across both Europe and Asia. It shares borders with Russia to the north, China to the east, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan to the south, and the Caspian Sea to the west.

Map References

Kazakhstan is situated in the Central Asian region, spanning across parts of both the European and Asian continents.

Area – Comparative

With an area of approximately 2,724,900 square kilometers (1,052,100 square miles), Kazakhstan is the ninth-largest country in the world, and is roughly four times the size of the U.S. state of Texas.

Land Boundaries and Border Countries

Kazakhstan has a total land boundary length of 13,364 kilometers (8,297 miles), and it shares borders with the following countries:

Coastline (if applicable)

Kazakhstan has a coastline of 1,459 kilometers (907 miles) along the Caspian Sea, the largest inland body of water in the world.

Maritime Claims

As a landlocked country, Kazakhstan has no territorial sea claims, but it does have maritime claims over the Caspian Sea, which includes exclusive economic zone and continental shelf claims.

Climate

Kazakhstan has a continental climate characterized by hot summers and cold winters, with significant regional variations. The northern regions have a more temperate climate, while the southern regions are predominantly dry and arid.

Terrain

Kazakhstan’s terrain is diverse, with vast steppe plains, deserts, and rugged mountain ranges. The country is dominated by the Kazakh Steppe in the north, the Tian Shan mountains in the southeast, and the Caspian Depression in the west.

Elevation Extremes

The highest point in Kazakhstan is Khan Tengri (7,010 meters or 23,000 feet), located in the Tian Shan mountains near the border with Kyrgyzstan. The lowest point is the Karagiye Depression at 132 meters (433 feet) below sea level, situated in the Caspian Depression region.

Natural Resources

Kazakhstan is rich in natural resources, including major deposits of oil, natural gas, coal, iron ore, copper, zinc, uranium, and precious metals.

Major Bodies of Water

The major bodies of water in Kazakhstan include:

Natural Hazards

The main natural hazards in Kazakhstan include earthquakes, floods, and mudslides, as well as environmental issues such as radioactive or toxic chemical sites associated with former defense industries and nuclear testing.

Geography – Notes

Kazakhstan is a landlocked country with a rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, ranging from the vast Kazakh Steppe to the rugged Tian Shan mountains. Its strategic location and abundance of natural resources have made it an important player in the region’s economy and geopolitics.

  • Forest Area (% of land area): 1.20%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
  • Co2 Emissions: 247,207. CO2 emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide gas into the atmosphere, primarily from the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy production, transportation, and industrial processes.
  • Agricultural Land( %). 80.40%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
  • Geographic Coordinates:  48.01957366.923684.
  • Capital: The capital of Kazakhstan is  Astana
  • Major Cities:
    • Almaty – population: 1,972,824
    • Nur-Sultan – population: 1,136,000
    • Shymkent – population: 1,002,291
    • Karaganda – population: 497,663
  • Population: 18,513,930
  • Area(Km2): 2724900
  • Population Density( P/Km²):7. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
  • Calling Code:7
  • Official Language(s):Kazakhstan is Kazakh (64.4%) and Russian (95%)
  • Currency: KZT

Main Economic Indicators

Kazakhstan is an upper-middle-income economy with a GDP of around $180 billion. The country’s economy is heavily dependent on oil and gas exports, making it vulnerable to commodity price fluctuations. Key economic challenges include diversifying the economy, attracting foreign investment, and reducing corruption. Notable economic policies include the Nurly Zhol infrastructure development program and the 100 Steps reform plan.

Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)

2021: 8.0% (Source: World Bank)
2020: 6.8% (Source: World Bank)

Credit Ratings

Fitch: BBB (Stable)
Moody’s: Baa2 (Stable)
Standard & Poor’s: BBB- (Stable)

GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin

Agriculture: 4.5%
Industry: 34.1%
Services: 61.4%

Key Agricultural and Industrial Products

Agricultural Products: Grain, potatoes, vegetables, melons, livestock
Industrial Products: Oil, coal, iron ore, manganese, chromite, lead, zinc, copper, titanium, bauxite, gold, silver, phosphates, sulfur, uranium, petroleum products, tractors, construction materials

Labor Force

Total Labor Force: 9.1 million (2020 est.)
Comparative Ranking: 72nd in the world

Current Account Balance

Current Account Balance: -$5.5 billion (2021 est.)
Comparative Ranking: 173rd in the world

Exports and Imports

Exports: $57.7 billion (2021 est.)
Key Partners: China, Italy, Netherlands, Russia, France
Main Commodities: Oil, gas, ferrous metals, chemicals, machinery, grain
Imports: $38.5 billion (2021 est.)
Key Partners: Russia, China, Germany, Italy, Turkey
Main Commodities: Machinery and equipment, metal products, foodstuffs

Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold

Foreign Exchange Reserves: $35.7 billion (31 December 2021 est.)
Gold Reserves: 390.6 tonnes (February 2022 est.)

  • GDP (Current US$):$180,161,741,180. It represents a country’s gross domestic product measured in current US dollars. Higher values indicate a larger economy and economic output.
  • Tax Revenue (% of GDP): 11.70%. It refers to the amount of tax revenue collected by the government, expressed as a percentage of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Higher values indicate a higher tax burden relative to the size of the economy.
  • Total Tax Rate (% of commercial profits): 28.40%. This is the sum of all taxes payable by businesses, expressed as a percentage of their commercial profits. Higher values indicate a higher tax burden on businesses.
  • Gasoline Price. $0.42. It refers to the cost of one liter or gallon of gasoline/petrol. Higher values indicate more expensive gasoline prices for consumers and businesses.
  • Minimum wage. $0.41. It refers to the lowest legally mandated hourly wage that employers must pay their workers. Higher values indicate a higher minimum level of pay for low-wage workers.
  • Unemployment Rate (%): 4.59%. It represents the percentage of the labor force that is unemployed and actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate more joblessness in the economy.

Social Indicators

1. National Identity

Nationality (noun): Kazakhstani

Nationality (adjective): Kazakhstani

2. Ethnic Groups

  • Kazakh: 63.1%
  • Russian: 23.7%
  • Uzbek: 2.9%
  • Ukrainian: 2.1%
  • Uighur: 1.4%
  • Tatar: 1.3%
  • German: 1.1%
  • Other: 4.4%

3. Religions

  • Muslim: 70.2%
  • Christian: 26.2%
  • Other: 0.2%
  • Atheist: 2.8%
  • Unspecified: 0.6%

4. Age Structure

  • 0-14 years: 27.6%
  • 15-64 years: 65.1%
  • 65 years and over: 7.3%

5. Dependency Ratios

Total dependency ratio: 53.3

Youth dependency ratio: 45.4

Elderly dependency ratio: 7.9

6. Median Age

Median age: 30.9 years

Median age (male): 29.6 years

Median age (female): 32.2 years

7. Lifestyle Indicators

Obesity rate: 21.0%

Alcohol consumption per capita: 6.4 liters

Tobacco use (adults): 22.4%

  • Life Expectancy at Birth: 73.2. Life Expectancy at Birth refers to the estimated average number of years a newborn is expected to live based on current mortality rates. Higher values indicate better health outcomes and living conditions in a country or region.
  • Literacy Rate (% of adults): 99.8%. It refers to the percentage of the population aged 15 and above who can read and write with understanding of a short simple statement about their everyday life. Higher literacy rates indicate better educational attainment within a population.
  • Birth Rate:21.77. Birth Rate is the total number of live births per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher birth rates indicate a larger share of the population being born each year.
  • Death Rate:10. Death Rate is the number of deaths per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher death rates indicate more people dying annually within a population.
  • Fertility Rate: 2.84. Fertility Rate is the average number of children a woman would have over her reproductive years based on current birth rates. Higher fertility rates indicate larger family sizes and population growth.
  • Internet Users (% of population): 72.5%. Internet Users (% of population) refers to the percentage of the total population in a country or region that has access to and uses the internet. Higher values indicate greater internet penetration and connectivity among the population.
  • Urban Population: 10,652,915. Urban Population refers to the percentage or number of people living in urban areas or cities within a country or region. Higher urban population values indicate greater urbanization and concentration of people in cities compared to rural areas.
  • Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure):38.80%. Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure) represents the portion of total health care costs that individuals pay directly out of their own pockets, rather than being covered by insurance or government programs. Higher values indicate greater personal financial burden for health care expenses.

Infrastructure and Services

Military and Security Forces

The Armed Forces of Kazakhstan consist of the Army, Air Force, and Navy. The Army is the largest service and includes air defense units. The Air Force operates fighter jets, attack aircraft, and transport planes. The Navy is primarily focused on patrolling the Caspian Sea.

Kazakhstan also maintains the National Guard, a paramilitary force responsible for internal security, supporting law enforcement, and protecting key state facilities.

Military Expenditures

Military spending as a percentage of GDP for the last five years:

  • 2021: 1.1%
  • 2020: 1.0%
  • 2019: 1.1%
  • 2018: 1.1%
  • 2017: 1.2%

Kazakhstan ranks 58th globally in terms of military expenditure as a share of GDP.

Personnel Strengths

The total active-duty military personnel strength is estimated at 76,000, with the breakdown as follows:

  • Army: 45,000
  • Air Force: 15,000
  • Navy: 3,000

The National Guard has an additional 20,000 active personnel.

Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions

Kazakhstan’s military inventory includes a mix of Soviet-era and modern Russian equipment, as well as some Western systems. Key assets include:

  • Tanks and Infantry Fighting Vehicles: T-72, BMP-2
  • Combat Aircraft: Su-27, MiG-29, Su-25
  • Air Defense Systems: S-300, Buk-M1

Recent acquisitions include Russian-made Su-30SM fighter jets and Turkish-made armed drones. Kazakhstan is also developing domestic production capabilities for small arms and unmanned aerial vehicles.

Military Service Age and Obligation

Military service is compulsory for Kazakhstani men between the ages of 18 and 27. The standard service period is one year. Alternative service options are available for those conscientious objectors.

Military Deployments

Kazakhstan has a small contingent of troops deployed as part of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). It also participates in the NATO Partnership for Peace program and occasionally contributes personnel to NATO-led missions.

Strategic Military Notes

Kazakhstan’s defense strategy is focused on protecting its territorial integrity and ensuring regional stability, particularly in Central Asia. The military plays a supporting role in border security and counterterrorism operations.

Kazakhstan is a member of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), a Russia-led military alliance. It also maintains close defense ties with Russia and participates in joint exercises and training programs.

  • Armed Forces Size: 39000. Armed Forces Size refers to the total number of active personnel serving in a country’s military forces, including the army, navy, air force, and other branches. Higher values indicate a larger military presence and personnel.
  • Physicians per Thousand: Number of doctors per 1,000 people is 3.25
  • Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 68.80%. This is the percentage of the total population aged 15 and older that is economically active, meaning they are either employed or actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate a greater proportion of the working-age population engaged in the labor force.

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