Abstract

This article examines a comparative analysis of institutional mechanisms aimed at maintaining ethnosocial stability in multiethnic Central Asian societies. Using Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan as case studies, the research explores the experience of social harmony through an analysis of the regulatory and legal framework, as well as the activities of state institutions responsible for interethnic relations and social stability. The research also considers not only legislative acts but practical response strategies employed by public authorities during crisis situations in both countries. A comparative analysis is conducted of institutional responses to interethnic conflicts, including the 2020 Korday events (Kazakhstan) and the 2010 Osh events (Kyrgyzstan).
Particular attention is paid to identifying the causes of the limited effectiveness of local authorities at the early stages of interethnic tensions. The analysis reveals a gap between declarative norms and practical enforcement mechanisms. The authors argue that a transition from a reactive model to a preventive and technologically enhanced model is necessary. Such a model would include social media monitoring, the application of mediation techniques, the introduction of compulsory conflict studies into educational curricula, and the professionalization of public administration in the field of managing interethnic tensions.