L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, a dissertation defense for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) by АБДРАХМАНОВ КАЙРАТ АМАНГЕЛЬДИНОВИЧ on the topic «Kazakhstan-Russia state border: current issues and main directions of cooperation» to the educational program «8D03102 – International Relations».
The dissertation was carried out at the «International relations» of L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University.
The language of defense is kazakh
Official reviewers:
Akishev Arman Aitmukhametovich - Doctor of Political Science, Professor of the Department of History of Kazakhstan, Toraigyrov University, NJSC (Pavlodar city, Republic of Kazakhstan)
Stambulov Serik Berdybaevich - Doctor PhD, Associate professor of the Department of World History and international relations of the Karaganda University named after E. A. Buketov (Karaganda city, Republic of Kazakhstan)
Temporary members of the Dissertation Committee:
Kabaziev Manarbek Shakirovich - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Deputy Chairman of the Board of the Institute of Foreign Policy Studies of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Astana, Republic of Kazakhstan).
Zhekenov Duman Kurmangazyevich - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Associate Professor, Expert of the Research Center "Analysis of Regional Relations" (Almaty, Republic of Kazakhstan).
Beisebayev Rakhat Sansyzbaevich - Candidate of Historical Sciences, Associate Professor of the Department of International Relations of Academician Kusein Karasayev Bishkek State University (Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic).
Scientific advisors:
Kozhirova Svetlana Basiyevna - doctor of political science, professor of the Higher School of Arts and Humanities of Astana International University (Astana, Republic of Kazakhstan).
Rakhimov Mirzokhid Akramovich - doctor of Historical Sciences, head of the Department of the coordination and methodological Center for the modern history of Uzbekistan at the Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan (Tashkent, Republic of Uzbekistan)
The defense will take place on September 04, 2025, at 16:00 AM in the Dissertation Council for the training direction «8D031 – Social sciences» in the education programe «8D03102 – International Relations» of L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University. The Dissertation Council meeting will be held in a mixed offline and online format.
Link: https://clck.ru/3Mozob
Address: Astana, K. Satpayev str., 2, classroom No. 302.
Abstract (English): The main topic of the dissertation is the history of the state border between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation, threats and dangers in the border area, issues of cross-border economic cooperation, main approaches to border studies, the current state and prospects of the state border. January 8, 2025 marks the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty on the State Border between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation, and the world's longest continuous land border (7,548 km) has been fully delimited. The delimitation of the border between Kazakhstan and Russia provides legal clarity, which is important for stability and predictability in interstate relations. At present, the demarcation of the state border between Kazakhstan and Russia is not completed, and experts attribute the long duration of this process to the scale and complexity of the work. According to reports, 75% of the state border has been demarcated, and work is ongoing on about 25%. The goal for both states is to complete the demarcation of the world's longest continuous land border on the basis of the principles of mutual trust, respect and peaceful coexistence between states. In the context of geopolitical tensions in the world, it is important for Kazakhstan, first of all, to be guided by its state and national interests, maintain neutrality, develop economic cooperation with Russia, and put the interests of its people above all. Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, the border between Kazakhstan and Russia has repeatedly become the object of research from various perspectives: historical development, border cooperation, demographic trends, security, public perception of border issues, etc. The vast majority of such studies have been mainly empirical in nature. Although some of the above conceptual issues have been addressed in these studies, their formulation has often been spontaneous and insufficiently systematic. The topic of the dissertation is relevant because the potential for examining understudied issues related to the border between Russia and Kazakhstan using theories of border studies is still very high. The research work identifies a number of promising directions for such analysis. First, most of the scientific works related to the border between Kazakhstan and Russia are carried out by Russian scientists, mainly reflecting the interests of Russia. Kazakhstan's interests are much less studied and not sufficiently conceptualized. There is a need for a systematic analysis of geopolitical concepts about the role and importance of borders from the point of view of critical geopolitics through the analysis of official documents, statements of politicians, texts of local history and other textbooks, surveys. Secondly, it is necessary to "diagnose barriers" and identify unused opportunities for its development using functional, institutional, comparative, network approaches to research on the problems and prospects of cooperation between the border regions of Kazakhstan and Russia. For example, significant cross-border distances between large cities of the two states and long delays at border checkpoints can be cited as obstacles to cooperation in the border region. Thirdly, environmental issues on the border of Kazakhstan and Russia, especially those related to transboundary rivers (pollution, flood management, shortage of transboundary water resources, etc.), are becoming an area that requires deeper research. To diagnose and solve such problems, it is necessary to use the theories of the concept of integrated water resources management and the concept of water security within the framework of an institutional approach. Fourth, there is still a great deal of room for conceptualization in studying issues related to the border between Kazakhstan and Russia from the perspective of the people who use it. From the perspective of postmodernism, the Kazakhstan-Russia border region can be represented as a complex of many physical, stable and dynamic borders. From the perspective of constructivism, the border regime between Russia and Kazakhstan should be presented as a complex phenomenon formed on the basis of norms and concepts and supported by the everyday practices of border guard agencies. The analysis of such relations provides opportunities to make the border between Kazakhstan and Russia a “friendly” border for those who use it in the future, as well as to prevent emergency situations that limit the interests of cross-border travelers and border residents. Fifth, in the context of increasing geopolitical tensions, the issue of terrorism is becoming increasingly relevant, especially for Russia. After the terrorist act at the Crocus Center in March 2023, the Russian side strengthened border control. This is because terrorist threats spread from these regions and the threat of illegal entry into Russia by radical extremists (including those who later acquired illegal status) was raised. In addition, statistics show that large consignments of opiates and cannabis-based drugs, as well as a significant amount of Chinese contraband, are entering Russia mainly through Siberia and the Far East. However, recently, there have been facts of an increase in the number of synthetic drug laboratories in the Central Asian region, and, according to experts, there is concrete evidence that the technical equipment and chemical compounds necessary for the creation of clandestine laboratories come from Russia, and there is evidence that they are illegally crossing the Russian-Kazakh state border. Therefore, it is necessary for Kazakhstan and Russia to pay special attention to the possibility of implementing the political experience of other countries, since their role in strengthening stability and security in this region is increasing. The main thing is to properly manage risks, prevent the growth of tension on the common border, and eliminate informal challenges based on geopolitical views. It is important to support the historically multicultural space of the state border of Kazakhstan and Russia (not just the "living space" of one ethnic group) and the "zone of solidarity" (not the "zone of geopolitical threats"). It is important to maintain a constructive discourse that focuses on developing cooperation between Kazakhstan and Russia within the framework of Eurasian integration. The object of the research is the system of bilateral relations established in the territory of the state border between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation. The subject of the research is the historical-geopolitical, socio-economic, environmental, legal directions of interaction between Kazakhstan and Russia in the territory of the state border. The purpose of the research work is to comprehensively study the current state of cooperation between Kazakhstan and Russia in the territory of the state border, identify emerging topical issues and identify the main directions for further development and improvement of bilateral relations. In accordance with the set goal, the following tasks are set for the study: 1. Systematization and analysis of empirical materials (archival documents, historical sources, periodicals) related to the research topic. 2. Study the theoretical and methodological foundations of border studies, identify the main geopolitical, socio-economic and legal factors influencing border processes. 3. To determine the stages of the historical formation of the Kazakhstan-Russia border, to reveal the nature and features of historical processes on the border, to give a realistic assessment of the construction of network fortifications; 4. Study the current state of economic cooperation in border regions, including the mechanisms of "mini-integration" within the EAEU, and assess their effectiveness. 5. Comprehensive study of demographic and migration trends, as well as the environmental situation (including the state of transboundary water bodies) in the Kazakhstan-Russia border regions. 6. Systematize current threats to border security (illegal migration, smuggling, interethnic tensions) and propose preventive measures, considering them in connection with national security. The main hypothesis of the research work : the system of cooperation established in the territory of the state border between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation is developing under the mutual influence of historical, geopolitical and economic factors, and through its effective management and coordination, it is possible to ensure the stability and development of the border regions. In addition, the solution of current migration, environmental and security issues through joint mechanisms is an important mechanism for strengthening border relations between the two states. Scientific novelty of the research work in the comprehensive and systematic implementation of research work. The dissertation work is a full-fledged work aimed at studying the social processes taking place on both sides of the border, starting from the establishment of the common state border between Kazakhstan and Russia, and identifying the problems that need to be solved and the prospects for development. During the research, the author achieved the following scientific results: 1. New aspects of the historical formation and legal formalization of the Kazakhstan-Russia border are comprehensively analyzed on the basis of archival and cartographic data. The concept of one of the oldest borders in the European modern direction is developed. 2. The current situation on the state border between Russia and Kazakhstan was comprehensively studied, and the institutional, functional, and spatial parameters of the border regime were scientifically analyzed. 3. For the first time, the current institutional structures of cross-border cooperation and "mini-integration" mechanisms are comprehensively assessed from both a theoretical and applied perspective. 4. Demographic, environmental, and security issues in border regions are considered in their interrelationships, and systematic approaches to addressing them are proposed. Methodology and methods of the research work. The methodological basis of the research work is the system method, the historical-geographical method, the comparative analysis method , the content analysis method, institutional and multifactor management methods . One of the main methods used in the research is the comparative analysis method. This method allows us to evaluate the experience of cross-border cooperation between Kazakhstan and Russia in comparison with other countries. The documentary-analytical method was used to analyze bilateral agreements, official documents, legislative acts and international treaties. The method of content analysis was used as a qualitative analysis of documents in the study of the regulatory and legal framework of cooperation between Kazakhstan and Russia. This method allows you to identify the main trends in the policies of states, assess their impact on the legal regime and international cooperation. The multifactorial management method is an approach that allows you to analyze complex systems or projects, taking into account various factors and levels of interaction. The use of the multifactorial management method in the analysis of the EAEU integration project allows you to comprehensively assess the dynamics of their development, identify key problems and ways to solve them. The theory of international relations used in the work allows us to explain the basic principles of interaction and cooperation between states, conflicts and harmonization of interests, as well as international processes in border regions. Theories of a geopolitical nature were used to assess the geographical location and strategic significance of the border, to analyze the influence of Kazakhstan and Russia at the regional and global levels. In addition, using the theory of regional integration, the processes of economic, political and social integration between neighboring states were studied. The theory of dependence was used to explain the peculiarities of development in border regions under the influence of large states and economically powerful countries. The institutional theory is aimed at studying the role of international and national institutions, agreements and organizations in the implementation of border cooperation. These theories allow for a deeper understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of border cooperation between Kazakhstan and Russia, as well as to scientifically substantiate its current problems and development directions. Also, political and economic analysis methods were used to assess the effectiveness and impact of cooperation in border regions. Statistical analysis methods were used to describe geographical, demographic and economic trends in border areas. Theoretical and practical significance of the research work The main conclusions and conclusions of the dissertation work are useful for specialists in the fields of international relations, political science, regional studies, and economics in analyzing the processes that shape the modern system of international relations. The materials and results of this research work may be accepted as scientific recommendations by the departments of the Republic of Kazakhstan dealing with state border issues. The dissertation materials may be used in the process of further research of a complex scientific problem related to border studies, as well as in teaching courses in international relations, political science, and geopolitics. Comprehensive studies on the common state border between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation have allowed us to formulate the following concepts: 1. In the study of the state border of Kazakhstan, it is effective to use both objectivist (institutional and functional approaches, typology and classification of borders) and subjectivist (constructivist, postmodernist and critical theories). The concepts of the first group provide an opportunity to assess the effectiveness of the work of state and public institutions (border, migration and customs control services, security structures, etc.), indicators of border regions, the methodologies of the second group are useful in terms of humanizing the approach to border issues, turning it to the life experience of an ordinary person, modernizing the practice of border operation and organizing border regions. 2. The Kazakh-Russian border is one of the oldest borders in the modern era. Its initial structure began to take shape in the early 18th century, with a system of fortifications along the Irtysh River. The Russian authorities, guided by the ideas of the European New Age, introduced continuous, clearly defined and mapped borders in this region. This trend was especially noticeable in the area of the “New Ishil Line” (Novoishimskaya Line). The strict border regime introduced by the Russian military administration limited the free movement of people and strengthened the policy of colonization. 3. The demographic situation in the Kazakhstan-Russia border regions is complex. Due to ethnogeographical features, the population of the border regions of Kazakhstan is decreasing, especially in the North and East Kazakhstan regions. The measures taken by the state in the field of demography are showing insignificant results in the northern and eastern regions, and the harsh climatic conditions are unfavorable for migration. 4. between Kazakhstan and Russia do not open up full opportunities for the development of border regions. Despite the achievements within the EAEU, border barriers remain, and the impact of cooperation institutions on the quality of life of the population is limited. Industrial ties formed on the basis of the Soviet economic heritage are insufficient for modern cross-border cooperation. The process of autonomization of production chains near the border may lead to a weakening of the potential for cooperation in the Eurasian space. 5. The issues of environmental security and water resources in the border region of Kazakhstan and Russia are very relevant. The risk of aggravating water shortages in the northern and western regions of Kazakhstan is high, water pollution in transboundary river basins is increasing the importance of biodiversity conservation issues. It is necessary to take into account the weaknesses of transboundary interaction in terms of the occurrence and mitigation of transboundary emergencies. 6. Illegal migration, interethnic and interfaith relations in the border area are a pressing issue in the field of border security. Problems in this area are often based on alarmist explanations and are likely to create artificial threats in the formation of official border policy. The ethnic composition of the regions close to the Russian-Kazakhstani border is characterized by a significant level of Kazakh-Russian relations, and Tatars, Germans, and Chechens also play a significant role in the regions. The following proposals are made to the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation in order to develop cooperation on the common state border and border zone: 1. It is proposed to adopt a state law defining the legal, socio-economic forms of development of the border regions of the Republic of Kazakhstan, which will allow the realization of the advantages of the border regions of the republic. In order to strengthen cross-border cooperation with the Russian Federation, it is necessary to create a common legal framework and clarify the powers of central and regional authorities. It is important to reduce bureaucratic barriers and ensure a balance between security and trade by developing infrastructure projects, increasing the number of border crossing points and introducing digital technologies. 2. As part of the strategy to increase the transit potential of the Republic of Kazakhstan, it is proposed to establish trade and logistics centers in large cities of the border region, which will give additional strength to the "Middle Corridor", adopting a program to modernize 50 transport crossings located on the border with the Russian Federation. In addition, the Middle Corridor and the North-South international transport corridors are two important directions of Eurasian logistics. The harmonious development of both routes will increase the transit potential of Kazakhstan and strengthen regional integration. 3. preserve the national demographic potential, a comprehensive demographic policy is needed. It is recommended to introduce measures to attract and stabilize the population to the border region, special programs for the resettlement of young people and large families, economic incentives and business support (facilitated taxation, grants and subsidies, development of cross-border trade, creation of new industrial clusters). It is necessary to compensate for demographic stability through external migration , and to intensify the work of attracting our compatriots living in China, Russia, Mongolia, and Central Asian countries to their historical homeland. 4. It is recommended to give priority to solving environmental problems in common border regions. In order to solve these problems, interstate agreements and strengthening the interaction of border regions play an important role. In many transboundary river basins, the problems of water pollution, biodiversity conservation, and flooding indicate a high probability of disasters at the national and transboundary levels, therefore it is important for the two countries to raise cooperation on environmental issues to a new level and strengthen the role of academic and public institutions in this important area. In general, the history of the formation of the state border between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation determines the current state of relations between the two states. In terms of preserving and developing historically close ties, the Russian-Kazakh border can in many cases be considered a model for other borders between post-Soviet states. Eurasian integration and the related initiatives of Kazakhstan play a major role in establishing good-neighborly relations. Industrial ties between enterprises, a common cultural and linguistic space, as well as the established location and transport systems have created a significant potential for economic integration and cross-border cooperation. The future course of the geopolitical situation in the Eurasian space, the possibility of Kazakhstan creating a single economic and financial macroregion with Russia, the likelihood of any conflicts in the common border area is low. One of the main reasons for this is that Russia intends to strengthen its influence in Kazakhstan through Eurasian integration processes, to become dominant in the energy sector of the country. Russia aims to strengthen its economic influence by investing most of its investments in the nuclear industry, fuel and gas infrastructure, and the petrochemical industry in Kazakhstan. Priority should be given to the development of regions located along the Kazakh-Russian state border, our northern and northeastern regions have high development opportunities on an equal footing with the cities on the other side of the border. The main threats to the security of the Republic of Kazakhstan, which are considered in the dissertation, include border and interethnic conflicts, economic instability, water resource shortages, religious extremism, drug trafficking and smuggling. Protecting the world's longest land state border is one of the most complex tasks in ensuring Kazakhstan's national security. Given these threats, it is preferable for Russia to maintain relations with Kazakhstan at the current level. The weak equipment and protection of the longest land state border is important for the Russian side. Therefore, the Russian Federation is interested in strengthening relations with Kazakhstan, ensuring internal stability in both states. In conclusion, today's Russian-Kazakh border can be described as a "border of interdependence" according to O. Martinez's classification. The level of cooperation on the border is higher than on the "border of coexistence", but it is not enough to reach the level of "integration borders" in terms of interaction in the economy, trade, industry, agriculture, as well as social mobility along the border. The border policy of Kazakhstan and Russia and the processes of interstate cooperation depend on the level and scope of relations between the states. In most cases, the heads of state are often forced to intervene in resolving border issues, since effective mechanisms for resolving these issues by the governments of the two countries, regional leaders or local authorities have not been formed. One of the main features of the current situation is that border cooperation at a high level depends on the dialogue between the heads of the two countries.
Conclusion of the Research Ethics Committee
Defense of the dissertation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sj4OKQkZ_2s
