Kyrgyzstan civil identity formation: Semantic phenomenon and interethnic relations

Relevance. The complex geopolitical situation attempts at revenge by former empires, and the temporary occupation of sovereign territories in the centre of Europe � all these factors make the issue of civic and national identity relevant, especially for citizens of the former Soviet Union. Purpose. The study aims to address the factors shaping the civic identity of Kyrgyz, in particular, the semantics of the native language and relations with neighbouring ethnic groups. Methodology. An empirical study was conducted, including a survey of representatives of the younger generation. Results. The study revealed positive dynamics of national Kyrgyz identity over the years of independence, from 3.1 million people in 1999 to 5.5 million people in 2022. The growth of national consciousness is also reflected in linguistic identification � more and more citizens speak Kyrgyz �fluently� (76%) or �well� (11%), while the influence of Russian, on the contrary, is declining. At the same time, a threat to the purity of the Kyrgyz language was identified due to the large number of words of foreign origin borrowed from Russian semantics. In the course of the study, recommendations were made to increase the prestige of the use of the Kyrgyz language and its original words in everyday life. A survey conducted among third-year students of the K.Sh. Toktomamatov International University revealed the main attributes of national heritage popular among young people and the current vision of geopolitical threats to Kyrgyzstan statehood. An analysis of innovative instruments that promote the development of national identity in the country was conducted. Conclusions. The study reveals a growing Kyrgyz identity in Kyrgyzstan, evidenced by increased Kyrgyz language proficiency and national consciousness among youth, while highlighting challenges such as the �russification� of the language and the need for strategies to promote modern Kyrgyz usage. Keywords: national identity; mother tongue; intangible heritage; self-identity; threat to independence; self-identification