Trust and social capital in Kazakhstan: challenges and opportunities for civil society development

Trust constitutes a central pillar of civil society and social capital, influencing economic, political and social development. In transitional societies such as Kazakhstan, trust operates as both a resource and a challenge for governance and civil society development. This study aims to examine interpersonal and institutional trust in Kazakhstan and to identify the key challenges and opportunities that trust creates for the formation of social capital and the development of civil society. Drawing on secondary statistical data, sociological theory and illustrative regression analyses, we explore key factors influencing trust, including education, income, social participation and urban residence. Results indicate moderate trust in civil society organizations, contrasted with relatively low trust in government and media, highlighting ongoing challenges for institutional legitimacy. The discussion emphasizes the role of civic education, participatory governance and institutional reforms in strengthening social capital. By situating Kazakhstan within post-Soviet and international contexts, this study contributes to comparative sociological literature on trust, social capital and civil society development. The article concludes by proposing policy strategies to enhance civic participation, accountability and social capital. Through comparative insights with neighboring Central Asian countries, this study contributes to broader debates on post-Soviet development, democratization and the moral foundations of trust.