Household Deprivation in Kazakhstan: A Factor Analysis of Regional Disparities

This study investigates the multidimensional nature of household deprivation in Kazakhstan within the broader context of poverty reduction and sustainable development. Based on a nationally representative household survey (sample size 2005), the data were analyzed using factor analysis in SPSS 25 to uncover latent dimensions of deprivation. The analysis identified six components: socio-cultural, educational, medical, children’s basic needs, food, and infrastructure, which were synthesized into three integrated indices: basic, institutional, and socio-cultural. The results reveal pronounced regional disparities, with the southern and western regions showing higher levels of deprivation, whereas major cities perform significantly better. Income level is a key determinant: households below the subsistence minimum face the highest deprivation risk, particularly in the basic and institutional dimensions of deprivation. Sociocultural deprivation was weakly associated with income. These findings underscore the urgent need for regionally differentiated, income-sensitive policies to mitigate poverty and promote equity. This study offers empirical insights into an underexplored area, contributing to the understanding of household vulnerability in Kazakhstan.