The results of the "Kazakhstan's Future Generation" study, conducted by the British Council, have been published. As part of the study, the organization provides a platform called "Next Generation" for the voices of young people around the world, allowing their voices to be heard and understanding of their aspirations, challenges, and role in changing and shaping society.
The research in Kazakhstan was carried out in partnership with LSE Consulting, the Central Asian Barometer (CAB), and the project Advisory Board.
The study involved 1,270 young Kazakhstanis aged 18 to 35: 1,202 in a representative survey and 68 in interviews and focus groups.

For reference: The methodology included five components:
● literature review – collecting information about the general socio-political and demographic context of Kazakhstan;
● a representative survey on attitudes, priorities, education, employment, civic participation and global prospects – the same questions from the Next Generation survey were used as for other countries (with some points adapted to the specific context of Kazakhstan);
● Qualitative interviews with young leaders – 20 young leaders from Kazakhstan were interviewed to explore their views on key social, economic and political issues;
● Focus groups with young Kazakhstanis – research with six focus groups was conducted in the cities of Astana, Almaty and Atyrau. In each city, there were two focus groups (respondents aged 18-24 and 29-34), the focus was on three main areas: education and employment; youth voice, digital media and news; global view;
● A series of "Stop and Think" workshops – with the participation of 10 Kazakhstani experts, activists, and practitioners – was organized by the project's Advisory Board, comprised of Kazakhstani experts and practitioners. A total of two "Stop and Think" workshops were held, one in person and one online.

One of the areas of analysis was the aspects that influence the formation of values, views and influence on young people.
First, according to the study, young Kazakhstanis are highly family-oriented and proud of their origins, regardless of social status. They consider family to be their primary source of influence, followed by friends and peers.
This is consistent with other recent studies of young Kazakhstanis. According to various surveys, family ranks first on the list of values and is important to over 80% of young people.
Young people also rely on family, friends, and close peers to determine their own success and happiness in life.
Second, young Kazakhstanis have a sober assessment of societal challenges and at the same time remain highly optimistic.
Over 80% are confident in the country's positive dynamics and their personal prospects, despite high housing costs and an uncertain macroeconomic environment.
Young women and men are optimistic about their lives and careers: about 86% of men and 83% of women are optimistic about the quality of their lives, 87% of young men and 82% of young women are optimistic about their future careers.
The study highlights that this generation demonstrates resilience and adaptability, perceiving challenges as opportunities for growth. A meaningful balance between collective and individual values is observed: while maintaining strong ties to family and cultural heritage, young people increasingly prioritize personal and professional development. This shift reflects a broader societal trend: the search for balance between tradition and new opportunities.
Third, both quantitative and qualitative data show that, on average, young Kazakhstanis have either a neutral or positive opinion about the overall quality of education and its prospects. More than half of young people (57%) agree that education in Kazakhstan is improving.
Positive views prevail across all age groups, but older cohorts are the most positive. For example, 78% of people aged 30-35 believe that education helps drive social change.
Fourth, young Kazakhstanis firmly believe in the transformative power of education to improve society: over 70% believe that education is the best tool for solving global problems.
Most young Kazakhstanis believe that education provides basic employment readiness, and leadership, problem-solving, and communication are key skills for workplace success. Knowledge of languages, especially Kazakh and English, is viewed as a competitive advantage. Over 80% consider learning a foreign language important, primarily for reasons including employment and travel opportunities (49% each), advanced education (47%), and expanded social connections (47%).
Fifth, entrepreneurship is an area of significant interest to young Kazakhstanis. Across all age groups, more than two-thirds of survey respondents are interested in starting their own business within the next five years.
Sixth, young Kazakhstanis understand the global situation that impacts their lives. They have a well-developed understanding of their country's international position and a genuine interest in the world. They see Kazakhstan as a "bridge" in three dimensions: geographically, connecting major powers; diplomatically, as a reliable regional intermediary; and culturally, as a link between the West and Central Asia.
A separate source of pride is the country's status as the region's largest economy and its reputation as a progressive example for its neighbors.
Seventh, the climate agenda is also gaining importance: respondents are primarily concerned about air quality, waste management, and water shortages. At the same time, with their characteristic optimism and positive outlook on the future, they demonstrate a clear willingness to find solutions.
Eighth, new trends are emerging in civic engagement. Young people are increasingly organizing themselves into initiative groups to address specific social issues (for example, urban infrastructure, assistance to people with disabilities).
In addition to grassroots activism, a new type of digital activism has emerged, in which people use social media to discuss social and economic issues. This takes various forms, including artistic performances, blogging, cartooning, comics, music, and eco-activism.