On the legal and financial foundations of local self-government bodies in the Republic of Kazakhstan: current state, problems and recommendations

Abstract

The study focuses on the problems of forming an effective financial system of local self-government (LSG) in the Republic of Kazakhstan. Research devoted to a systematic examination of the financial problems of LSG bodies in Kazakhstan remains insufficient. In his Address of 16 March 2022, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev referred to the “hybrid nature” of maslikhats as institutions of both local public administration and local self-government and emphasized the need to define their powers more clearly. The article examines the system of legislation on local self-government in Kazakhstan, the financial provision of LSG bodies, and their organizational and legal foundations. The findings indicate that adequate financing is an important condition for effective local self-government, but it cannot replace clearly defined statutory powers, accountability, and organizational mechanisms. The authors propose further legislative development of organizational forms of local self-government at the level of rural and urban settlements, with clearer rules on competence, formation, accountability, and financial provision. Public foundations may also be considered as an additional mechanism for supporting local community initiatives in accordance with legislation on non-profit organizations.