The Institute of Philosophy, Political Science and Religious Studies of the CS MOHES RK hosted an expert discussion of the annual Nation Address of the President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to the People of Kazakhstan “Kazakhstan in the Era of Artificial Intelligence: Current Challenges and Solutions through Digital Transformation”

The event was organized by the Center for Comparative Political Studies of the Institute. Its purpose was to develop practical recommendations for implementing the priorities outlined in the Address: the accelerated introduction of digital technologies and artificial intelligence, the adoption of strategic documents (Digital Code, AI Strategy), modernization of the public administration system, and the training of a new generation of specialists.

The event was opened by General Director Aigul Sadvokassova, who emphasized the importance of comprehensively understanding the Address both at the macro and micro levels. In her remarks, she placed particular focus on the sociocultural aspects of digitalization and the significance of Kazakhstan’s transition to the format of a “digital state.”

Continuing the discussion, Aidar Amrebaev, Director of the Center for Comparative Political Studies, noted that the Address sets the vector for the country’s entry into a new digital reality. He especially highlighted the importance of using digital data in governance processes, as well as the expected dynamism of the upcoming political season, including in the legislative sphere.

Vyacheslav Dodonov, Chief Research Fellow, commented on the economic aspects of the Address, drawing attention to the establishment of a Crypto Assets Fund, the need to strengthen the investment climate, and the fight against inflation. He stressed that for sustainable growth it is important to rethink the role of the economy under conditions of digital transformation.

From the perspective of the functioning of political institutions, Chief Research Fellow Yury Buluktaev characterized the role of Parliament as one of the key drivers of reforms. He reminded participants of the importance of its representative, legislative, and oversight functions in the context of digital renewal.

Young researchers of the Institute also presented their analytical comments.
• Marlen Turysbek raised questions related to the implementation of the “Smart Cities” concept, including potential risks connected with security and ethical aspects.
• Aidana Serikbayeva offered a sociological perspective on the transformation of the state into a digital form, noting that this represents a transition to a “network state,” where information flows and trust become key elements of effectiveness.

Overall, participants emphasized that Kazakhstan stands on the threshold of profound digital transformation, and the implementation of the provisions of the Address requires an interdisciplinary approach, comprehensive preparation, and close cooperation between science, society, and the state.