The impact of Russian soft power in Kazakhstan: creating an enabling environment for cooperation between Nur-Sultan and Moscow

ABSTRACT This study of soft power applies a Gramscian notion of hegemony as consent to the international arena. Drawing on an attitudinal survey conducted in autumn 2021 among higher education students in three cities of Kazakhstan, the piece argues that Russia does enjoy cultural-ideational attraction in Kazakhstan, although this does come with some qualifications. By way of explanation, various channels through which Russia communicate with the Kazakhstani audience are presented. With regard to the impact of Russian soft power in Kazakhstan, the article points to various examples of how Kazakhstani relationships and interactions with Russia are facilitated and enhanced by soft power.