Abstract

This article explores the concept of justice in the mass consciousness of Kazakhstanis within the context of the political and social transformations that took place before and after the January 2022 events. Special attention is given to the initiative of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, aimed at building a Just Kazakhstan and bringing the notion of justice back into state and public discourse. Based on the results of sociological research conducted in 2021 and 2022, the article analyzes how justice is perceived by public opinion, the level of trust in political institutions, and the value orientations of citizens. The empirical data obtained through field studies allow for the identification of the dynamics in the transformation of Kazakhstanis’ mass political consciousness.
Overall, sociological surveys indicate a predominance of a paternalistic political culture—characterized by reliance on the views of those in power and official state policy. Within this framework, assessments of what is considered just or unjust are formed. The article outlines the principles of building a just state through the lens of political technologies and mechanisms. The authors conclude that there is an institutional weakness in ensuring justice and emphasize the need to strengthen mechanisms of social support and political participation.