How to develop in a sustainable way: Some problems related to social cohesion in Kazakhstan

In the paper, the rapid economic growth due to expanding oil production in Kazakhstan at the turn of the twentieth century is discussed in the context of social polarization and growing disparities. Causes of the weakness of social cohesion are elaborated related to privatization, corruption, ethnic tensions and clan relationships. The issue is exemplified by access to higher education, the property market and state jobs.