Irregular migration in Kazakhstan: Challenges, consequences, and approaches to improving state regulation

The purpose of the study was to identify key problems and institutional challenges related to illegal migration in the Republic of Kazakhstan, and to analyse approaches to improving the state regulation of migration processes in the context of ensuring national security. The methodological basis of the study were: systematic approach, structural and functional method used to study the institutional architecture of the state regulation of migration processes; the comparative legal method allowed comparing national legislation with international standards in the field of migrants’ rights protection. The study identified significant gaps in legislative regulation, including the lack of clear mechanisms for detecting illegal migrants, insufficient rules on employer liability, and limited opportunities for legalising migrants’ status. Systemic shortcomings in coordination between different state bodies have been identified, which reduces the effectiveness of control over migration flows. The analysis demonstrated the lack of a comprehensive approach to the social integration of migrants and the insufficient development of infrastructure for their adaptation, especially in border regions. On the basis of the study, it was developed comprehensive recommendations for improving migration policy, including the need to ratify International Labour Organisation Convention No. 143, strengthening institutional coordination between migration services, introducing legalisation programmes for certain categories of labour migrants and creating effective mechanisms for social integration. The authors proposed to create a single digital platform for recording and monitoring migration processes, as well as to introduce specialised training and adaptation programmes for migrants. The author substantiated the need to develop a differentiated approach to migration regulation, depending on regional specifics and labour market needs. Implementation of the proposed measures will reduce the risks associated with illegal migration and ensure stable development of the country’s regions