Implementing state information policy is a complex and multidimensional process that involves regulatory, organizational, technological, economic, and social (including educational) components. Its success depends on a set of interrelated institutional and strategic elements that form the backbone of national information systems. These elements help integrate the country’s information space into a coherent and unified environment.

A core driver of national information policy is the development of a coherent legislative framework – an integrated system of interrelated legal acts that evolves in response to the changing information needs of society^[150].

The State information policy of the Republic of Kazakhstan is formed under the influence of many factors that determine its goals, implementation mechanisms and effectiveness. These factors can be divided into political and legal, economic, social, technological and geopolitical.

Political and legal factors play a key role in the formation and implementation of the state information policy of Kazakhstan. These include the constitutional framework, legislative regulation, institutional structure, enforcement mechanisms, and interaction with international norms. Let's take a closer look at them.

Main elements of political and legal factors:

- constitutional bases: freedom of speech (Article 20), protection of personal data (Article 18), right to information;

- legislation: laws «On Mass media», «On Access to information», «On Personal Data», «On Cybersecurity»;

- State agencies: Ministry of Information and Public Development, Ministry of Digital Development, National Security Committee, State Technical Service;

- control and regulation of the information space: media registration, monitoring of internet content, and countering disinformation;

- international obligations: participation in the UN, OSCE, EAEU, SCO on information security and media development.

Solving the problems of political modernization and further democratization of public life is connected with the need to liberalize the information sphere, avoid excessive regulation of relations in the media sphere, and strengthen guarantees of freedom of speech and expression.

They are based on an awareness of the importance of functioning of competitive and free media with their own view of the processes taking place in Kazakhstan, the region and the world. True information security and ideological sovereignty of the country depend on this.

There is also a growing demand for the formation of a holistic system of national values and a political and social worldview, especially in conditions of historical turbulence.

In this context, the Republic of Kazakhstan, as an active participant in the global information ecosystem, faces the strategic task of developing clear communication principles and value-based priorities that reflect and promote its national interests in the information sphere.

The implementation of this strategic task requires the development of a document of a doctrinal, ideological nature, which makes it possible to determine the main vector and basic approaches of the state information policy for the long term.

The Information doctrine (hereinafter referred to as the doctrine) represents a system of views on the development of the domestic information sphere, principles and mechanisms for increasing its openness and competitiveness. The doctrine will also define ideological and value attitudes that meet the interests of the people and contribute to the further development of the state and society.

Being a fundamental document for the formation of state policy in the information and communication sphere, the doctrine is designed to ensure a balance between the interests of society and the state, creating equal conditions for the exercise of rights by all subjects of the media process.

The key direction of the implementation of the doctrine is to ensure the information security of the country and its citizens, timely response to information challenges and risks^[151].

Economic factors play an important role in the implementation of the information policy of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Economic conditions affect the development of information infrastructure, the availability of digital technologies, and the financing of government information programs.

The main elements of the economic factor are: Investments in IT infrastructure and digitalization (Digital Kazakhstan programs, development of data centers and cloud technologies). State funding of mass media and information campaigns. The role of the private sector in the development of the Internet economy (telecommunications companies, IT companies, startups). Media commercialization and the impact of the advertising market on content. Development of digital platforms and e-commerce.

Social factors shape the level of digital literacy of the population, the availability of information, and the level of trust in government sources. It should be noted that in the modern conditions of the information society, the development of civilization is characterized by new features of socio-political processes, improvement of structures and institutions. First, it occurs in the form of creating global information links and dependencies, like social networks. Secondly, the acceleration of innovative technologies that cover ever-wider social spheres.

Basic elements of the social factor. The level of digital literacy and media culture of the population. Information behavior of citizens (preferences in news consumption, level of trust in the media and social networks). Availability of the Internet and digital services (digital divide between regions). Social networks as a tool of public opinion and political mobilization. The role of youth and educational programs in the development of digital competencies.

Technological factors. In modern conditions, the development of information technologies determines the dynamics of state information policy, including cybersecurity, digital communications and automation of public services.

For example, the term «information technology», a specialized agency of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization UNESCO, uses the following wording in its documents: «Information technology is a complex of interrelated, scientific, technological, engineering disciplines that study methods of effective organization of work of people engaged in processing and storing information; computer technology and methods of organizing the organization of work of people engaged in and interactions with people and production equipment, their practical applications, as well as related social, economic and cultural issues^[152]».

The organizational and technological foundation for solving all problems of state information policy is a single interconnected system of national information resources and information and communication infrastructure of the state. Organization and requirements for the process of forming information resources, their quality indicators. Information and communication infrastructure as a complex of organizational and technological means of searching, storing, distributing and using information products and services.

The development of traditional media remains a vital component of the national information infrastructure, serving essential social and cultural functions. Telecommunications represent the foundational layer of this infrastructure, enabling the transmission and accessibility of information across all sectors. The scientific, technical, and industrial complex of the information industry – along with its products and services market – functions as a key technical and economic driver of growth^[153].

Prospective strategies for strengthening this complex include fostering innovation, enhancing industrial capacity, and expanding access to information technologies. Equally important is the evolving market for information products and services, which requires regulatory support and quality standards.

A critical element in this ecosystem is the system of mass information education and public enlightenment, which plays a strategic role in social and educational adaptation, as well as in enhancing citizens’ resilience to the psychological and cognitive challenges of transitioning to an information society.

Main elements:

- telecommunications infrastructure (5G, fiber-optic networks, satellite Internet);

- development of artificial intelligence and Big Data in information processing;

- state-of-the-art digital platforms (eGov, Smart City);

- Cybersecurity and data protection (Cybershield of Kazakhstan program);

- development of Kazakhstan's content in the digital space (national platforms, local social networks).

Let's consider the impact of information technologies on political activity on a specific case. Activity of a deputy of the Mazhilis of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Senate of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, maslikhats of any level has its own area of responsibility before the elected precincts. The deputy must hold receptions and execute the instructions of residents by virtue of his powers. With the development of information technologies, it has become much easier for residents to track parliamentary activities, for example, in the social network Instagram. The deputy visited various social facilities, helped doctors in a pandemic, a resident of a village or city solve a problem, and published all this on his social networks. His subscribers – voters see the work, that the deputy really helps, understand that it is not for nothing that they once chose him. Also, with the help of information technologies, residents – voters have the opportunity to quickly contact the deputy. Now you don't have to wait for a personal appointment, which is held once a month and not everyone can get to it. People just need to leave a comment or write in private messages, and their request will be heard. In other words, we see that there is a feedback loop that allows residents to understand what political activity is being conducted in their region or a city that is actually being conducted, and not just exists.

The technological factor plays a crucial role in the formation and implementation of the state information policy of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

It defines the development of digital infrastructure, the security of the information space, the availability of information for the public, as well as mechanisms for managing public data and interacting with citizens.

In the context of digital transformation and globalization, Kazakhstan is actively developing its IT infrastructure, introducing innovative technologies in public administration, and striving to ensure cybersecurity. Let's consider the main aspects of the influence of the technological factor on the country's information policy. Digital infrastructure – is the basis for effective functioning of the state information policy. Kazakhstan is implementing large-scale programs aimed at expanding access to the Internet, developing telecommunications technologies and creating national digital platforms.

Access to the Internet and mobile technologies has been achieved. For example, as of 2015, the level of Internet use in Kazakhstan exceeds 97% of the population. 5G networks are being developed in large cities, which speeds up data transmission and improves the quality of communication. Projects have been launched to provide fiber-optic communication in rural areas, which reduces the digital divide between regions.

The Internet has become a truly system-forming element of the entire state structure of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The Internet infrastructure is widely used in all industries of the country. The COVID-19 pandemic has provided a strong argument for the development of digitalization. In addition to solving the internal problems of digitalization for Kazakhstan, it is necessary to assess the regional factor of Kazakhstan in Central Asia. The country's main transit channels provide connectivity and traffic for all countries in the region and further into Asia.

The many policies of various agencies and agencies related to the Internet lead to different interpretations and understandings of the main goals and objectives of sustainable development. We should move towards an interdisciplinary policy of sustainable digitalization that protects fundamental rights, promotes cohesion and encourages innovation.

The high level of digitalization in the country requires systematic comprehensive measures to provide users with the necessary information and knowledge on safe use of the Internet, creating a favorable environment for people with disabilities and disabled people. Recommendations for government agencies:

- development and implementation of the National Program for Secure Internet, which will ensure the safe use of ICTs and the Internet by users:

- development of digital law, improvement of legal regulation of relations that are being developed in connection with the use of information and communication technologies. Special attention should be paid to the development of regulatory and legal regulation of data management, personal data protection, and legal support for big data and artificial intelligence^[154].

Geopolitical factors.

Kazakhstan, as a part of the global information space, faces challenges related to international competition, information wars and the need to protect digital sovereignty.

Geopolitical factors play a significant role in the formation and implementation of the state information policy of Kazakhstan. In the context of globalization and technological development, the information space is becoming an arena of international interaction, competition and confrontation. Kazakhstan, being at the intersection of the interests of world powers and international organizations, is forced to take these factors into account when developing and implementing its information strategy.

Geopolitical influence manifests itself through several key aspects: international competition in the field of technology and digital content, information confrontation between leading powers, cybersecurity, cooperation within international organizations, and the need to protect national information sovereignty.

Main elements:

- information security in the context of global conflicts;

- integration of international IT corporations (Google, Meta, TikTok) into the Kazakh information space;

- coordination with partners in the EAEU, SCO, and CIS in information policy surveys;

- state strategy for countering disinformation and fake news;

- balance between international standards of freedom of speech and protection of national interests.

Let us consider the main aspects of the geopolitical factor in information policy.

International competition in the information sphere.

In the modern world, the information space is becoming a field for strategic competition between states and multinational corporations. Kazakhstan faces the influence of such global players as the United States, China, Russia, the European Union and multinational IT corporations (Google, Meta, Microsoft, Huawei, Yandex, etc.).

Fight for the digital market.

Kazakhstan is part of the global information space, which makes its market attractive for global IT companies. American companies (Google, Meta, Microsoft) dominate the field of digital advertising, cloud technologies and social networks. China is actively promoting its technologies (Huawei, TikTok, WeChat), offering alternative platforms for the development of digital infrastructure. Russia (Yandex, VK, RuTube) develops cooperation with Kazakhstan in the field of digital technologies and media. Kazakhstan is forced to balance between these players, developing its own strategies for protecting the national information space.

Regulation of multinational Internet corporations.

The Kazakh authorities seek to establish control over the activities of foreign IT companies by introducing requirements for data localization and content regulation. In 2022, a law was adopted obliging foreign social networks and messengers to open representative offices in Kazakhstan for interaction with government agencies. Measures to monitor and block destructive content distributed through global digital platforms have been strengthened. These measures are aimed at ensuring information sovereignty and reducing dependence on external players.

Information confrontation of the leading powers.

The modern world is facing an increase in information warfare between states. Kazakhstan, being located between Russia, China and the West, is forced to take into account the influence of various information flows. The impact of international media and digital platforms. Western media (BBC, CNN, Radio Liberty) promote democratic values and criticize authoritarian regimes, which affects public opinion in Kazakhstan. Russian mass media (RT, Sputnik, Channel One) promote an alternative point of view and information integration within the Eurasian space. Chinese media expansion is limited, but is gradually growing through economic cooperation and the promotion of «soft power». It is important for Kazakhstan to maintain a balance, avoiding excessive influence of one side, in order to protect national interests.

Fight against disinformation and fake news.

In hybrid conflicts, information is used as an instrument of political pressure. Kazakhstan is taking measures to counteract fake news, especially in social networks. Laws on punishing the dissemination of false information have been introduced, and monitoring of destructive content has been strengthened. The state strives to create a transparent and secure information environment, protecting citizens from manipulative influence.

Issues of cybersecurity and information sovereignty.

One of the most important challenges for Kazakhstan –is ensuring cybersecurity and protection from external attacks. Cybersecurity threats

Kazakhstan is facing hacker attacks targeting government systems and critical infrastructure.

In 201.7, the Cyber shield of Kazakhstan program was launched, aimed at protecting against cyber threats and developing the national IT infrastructure. Technologies of encryption, personal data protection and monitoring of cyber threats are being actively developed.

Development of national digital sovereignty.

Kazakhstan seeks to develop its own IT companies in order to reduce its dependence on foreign technologies. State data centers are being created to store information within the country. National platforms and social networks that are alternatives to international services are being developed. These measures are aimed at increasing the resilience of Kazakhstan's information system to external challenges.

Kazakhstan is actively implementing digital technologies aimed at improving the efficiency of public services, reducing bureaucratic barriers and improving the quality of life of citizens. For example, the Digital Leadership Office includes a national think tank, a transformation center, and a national project office.

The office of the Digital Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan automates primary analytics, prepares forecasts and development scenarios, monitors and identifies risks of failure to achieve targets. This office is engaged in reengineering the processes of government agencies and converting them to digital format.

International cooperation in the field of information policy.

Kazakhstan actively cooperates with international organizations to develop a unified strategy for digital development and information security. Participation in international organizations of nuclear power plants – digital integration and joint IT projects with Russia, Belarus, Armenia and Kyrgyzstan. SCO – cooperation in the field of cybersecurity and combating disinformation. UN and OSCE-cooperation on freedom of speech and protection of Internet users ' rights. Balance between national interests and international obligations

Kazakhstan strives to comply with international principles of freedom of information, but at the same time protects its national interests. Hybrid models of information space regulation that take into account global trends and internal realities are being developed.

In conclusion, it should be noted that geopolitical factors have a significant impact on the information policy of Kazakhstan. The country is at the center of global information flows and is forced to adapt to the challenges of the digital age.

Thus, the state information policy of Kazakhstan is formed under the influence of political, legal, economic, social, technological and geopolitical factors. They determine the country's digital development strategy, methods of regulating the information space, and mechanisms for ensuring information security. In modern conditions, Kazakhstan seeks to develop the digital economy, increase the media literacy of the population and ensure a balance between freedom of information and the protection of state interests.

Developing and ensuring the sustainable functioning and security of the country's unified information space is one of the basic priorities of state policy.

Methodology of state information policy implementation in the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The State information Policy of the Republic of Kazakhstan is a system of measures aimed at the formation, development and regulation of the country's information space. Its methodology is based on scientific approaches to information management, technological innovations, legal mechanisms and institutional structures.

The methodology includes principles, mechanisms, tools and strategies for implementing the state information policy. Kazakhstan strives for a balanced development of the information sphere, ensuring the availability, reliability and security of information, as well as compliance with national interests in the context of digitalization and global challenges.

Principles of implementation of the state information policy.

The methodology is based on several key principles that determine the state's strategy in the information sphere:

- the principle of openness and accessibility of information. Ensuring free access of citizens to information about the activities of state bodies. Development of e-government (eGov) to simplify interaction between the population and government agencies;

- the principle of digital sovereignty. Control over critical information infrastructure. Development of national digital platforms and protection from external interference;

- principles of information security and protection. Prevention of cyber attacks and protection of personal data. Fight against disinformation and fake news;

- the principle of balancing freedom of speech and the protection of national interests. Regulation of the media space without violating the rights of citizens;

Countering extremist and illegal content.

- principle of adaptability and innovative development. Flexible response to technological changes. The use of Big Data, artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technologies in information management.

These principles lay the foundation for a methodological approach to information policy in Kazakhstan.

The methodology for implementing the state information policy of Kazakhstan is based on the principles of openness, security, digital sovereignty and adaptability to technological changes.

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^[150] Nisnevich Yu. A. Special Course «Information Policy» https://publications.hse.ru/pubs/share/folder/dm0i3 Accessed on 27/02/2025

^[151] On the approval of the Information Doctrine of the Republic of Kazakhstan March 20, 2023 https://akorda.kz/ru/ob-utverzhdenii-informacionnoy-doktriny-respubliki-kazahstan-2025248/ Accessed on 27.02.2025.

^[152] UNESCO. Information Literacy. Report 2004–2005 / edited by Elizabeth Longworth. – Paris, 2006.

^[153] Nisnevich Yu. A. Special Course «Information Policy» https://publications.hse.ru/pubs/share/folder/dm0i3 Accessed on 27/02/2025

^[154] Measuring Internet Development in Kazakhstan. https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000388060 Brief overview