For much of Central Asia’s history, deeply rooted systems of gender inequality have shaped societal norms, hindering women’s full participation in public and economic life. Kazakhstan, like many of its neighbors, has carried this historical burden. However, in the past decade, the country has initiated meaningful steps toward transformation.
Today, Kazakhstan is forging a new path toward gender equality in a region often overlooked in global dialogues on women’s rights and leadership. While challenges remain, measurable progress is evident through legislative reforms, increased political representation, and growing economic opportunities for women.
Over the last ten years, Kazakhstan has institutionalized gender equality by embedding it in legal frameworks, economic policy, and governance practices. Notably, the economic landscape has seen a significant shift: by the end of 2024, women owned over 48% of small and medium-sized businesses in the country. This growth stems from targeted government programs, strategic financing, and key international partnerships that have helped women entrepreneurs gain access to capital, training, and cross-border markets.
A prime example is the “Women in Business” program, developed in collaboration with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. It has disbursed nearly $190 million in sub-loans to women-led enterprises. These initiatives also provide mentorship, internships, and professional development opportunities that help female entrepreneurs convert ambition into long-term success. In the corporate sector, women now make up 43% of senior management roles, surpassing national targets.
These efforts go beyond fairness—they are economically strategic. Investing in women has opened new sectors, created jobs, and stimulated innovation. As Kazakhstan pursues its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals and seeks to diversify away from natural resource dependence, women’s inclusion in economic decision-making is more vital than ever.
Kazakhstan’s government recognizes that economic access must be complemented by political voice. A 30% quota in Parliament has been introduced for women, youth, and people with disabilities to promote inclusive governance. Additionally, the government is aiming to ensure at least 30% female representation in the leadership of state-owned enterprises.
This is part of a wider gender policy overhaul. Kazakhstan’s updated Concept of Family and Gender Policy sets ambitious targets for gender representation across the executive, legal, and corporate arenas by 2030.
Yet, numbers alone don’t form the full picture. The increasing presence of women in public life—as CEOs, lawmakers, and diplomats—is redefining societal expectations and inspiring future generations in a country where such roles were once rare for women.
The Law as a Catalyst for Change
One of 2024’s most transformative developments was the adoption of the Law on Ensuring the Rights of Women and the Safety of Children. This pivotal legislation redefined how domestic violence and gender-based discrimination are addressed in Kazakhstan.
By treating gender-based violence as a systemic social issue rather than a private matter, the law marks a cultural shift—ushering in greater accountability and communal responsibility. It’s a key step in positioning Kazakhstan as a regional leader in human rights reform.
The new law is supported by a broader Human Rights Action Plan, which includes initiatives to eradicate discrimination and promote gender equality nationwide. In line with best practices recommended by the UN, Kazakhstan has put forward a 2024–2027 national action plan to uphold equal rights for all genders.
Progress Through Global Partnerships
Kazakhstan’s achievements in gender equality are closely tied to its engagement with international frameworks. As a participant in three UN Generation Equality Action Coalitions, the country actively supports global efforts to close gender gaps.
In 2023, the Spotlight Initiative—supported by the European Union and Kazakhstan—launched the Central Asian Alliance to End Gender-Based Violence in Almaty. This alliance signifies a major step toward regional collaboration in tackling entrenched gender issues.
Kazakhstan’s growing role on the international stage was further affirmed when the UN General Assembly unanimously approved the establishment of a UN Regional Centre for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty. This initiative, originally proposed by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in 2019, received endorsement from the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.
Women’s participation in peacekeeping is also being prioritized, with Kazakhstan working toward fulfilling its commitments under UN Security Council Resolution 1325. Currently, seven Kazakh women serve in UN peacekeeping missions abroad.
International best practices are being conscientiously adapted at the national level. Kazakhstan became the first Eurasian country to join the World Economic Forum’s Gender Parity Accelerator, fostering collaboration among public agencies, financial institutions, and private enterprises to dismantle structural barriers. Programs like the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs, supported by global donors, are empowering women at the grassroots level—with over 130 graduates and 100 more enrolled today.
The Road Ahead
Kazakhstan’s journey
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