The Core Principles of Civic Life
Kazakhstan's President Tokayev Unveils Bold Vision for Youth and Digital Future
In an interview with the Turkistan newspaper, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev clearly articulated the essence of constructive patriotism.
The head of state's annual interview with a print media outlet at the start of the year has become a new political tradition. Notably, the conversation with journalists goes far beyond a routine recap of the past year's events or an outline of plans for the year ahead.
In his interview with Turkistan, Tokayev shared his vision for the upcoming sweeping political and economic reforms aimed at transforming the country in the long term.
The president's articulation of a shared future, along with plans to modernize political institutions and renew economic mechanisms, is directly tied to Kazakhstan's youth. It is the younger generation that will live in these new realities.
I am convinced that young readers must understand and reflect on the messages conveyed in the president's interview. The head of state emphasized that the future of the country lies with talented, proactive, and patriotic youth. This is not just a perfunctory statement—it reflects a strategic priority for Kazakhstan's continued development.
The interview places great emphasis on responsibility—of the state, society, business, and the individual. "Law and Order," "Honest Citizen," "Clean Kazakhstan," "Unity and Diversity"—these are the principles that underpin modern Kazakhstani society. Each stems from values that have, throughout history, united our people and served as markers of honor, justice, and high moral character.
The president offered a clear and precise definition of constructive patriotism. Young people should not indulge in empty posturing or grand declarations. Love for one's country must be demonstrated through actions—through achievements, victories, discoveries, and success in education and work. This is what builds the nation's most valuable capital.
This year, the Assembly of the Youth organization will launch the "My Patriots of Kazakhstan" project, designed to showcase successful examples of young people making a tangible contribution to the country's and society's development. I am confident this initiative will motivate our youth and create a multiplier effect.
In the interview, the president invoked the legacy of the great Abai, whose Book of Words reflects deeply on the value of labor, knowledge, and human benevolence. These values remain just as relevant in the age of digitalization and artificial intelligence. They continue to serve as benchmarks of high culture, morality, and proper upbringing for any individual.
I consider it vitally important for platforms focused on youth engagement—including the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan'sZhasitary (Youth Assembly)—to promote the principles of constructive patriotism through educational, cultural, social, and creative initiatives. Today, this is one of the most crucial missions for youth organizations.
We advance Abai's philosophical concept of Tolyq Adam (the Whole Person) through various mechanisms. One key approach is hosting Abai Readings and organizing expeditions in the native region of this great thinker. This immerses young people not in superficial study but in a thoughtful exploration of his ideas.
Of course, given the outsized influence of social media on our lives, we strive to support this project on popular platforms, creating engaging and innovative content for young audiences. In 2026, the next Abai Readings are planned, bringing together participants not only from across Kazakhstan but also from neighboring countries.
This year, we will launch the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan's new project, Meniń Qazaqstanym (My Kazakhstan). It will further promote respect for the environment while placing special emphasis on purity of conduct and thought, free from social vices such as gambling addiction, drug dependency, and alcoholism. As the Head of State has noted, purity must be the cornerstone of our national mentality.
Ongoing initiatives like Zhastar Üshin (For the Youth), the Assembly's School of Leaders, Jastar Wave, and Jastar Generation aim to cultivate a generation of responsible, competitive young citizens. Through these programs, we continue to provide in-demand knowledge, skills, and new opportunities for all who seek them.
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has declared 2026 the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence. In response, many projects will focus on developing skills in these fields. The Digital Assembly module is already operational, with our activists involved in creating digital solutions for the Assembly's social initiatives.
Ahead lies critical and demanding work, imbued with special significance as we mark the 35th anniversary of Kazakhstan's independence—a pivotal moment to assess our progress and define global goals for the future. The Head of State has emphasized that the path of reform has never been easy, and success demands diligence and responsibility.
Yet no reform is possible without unity and consensus in society. Every Kazakhstani must recognize that our shared solidarity and cohesion are the foundation of all successful transformation.
