As part of the implementation of the research project AP26197965 “Everyday Life of Ethnic Repatriates in Post-Soviet Kazakhstan: Adaptive Strategies and Integration Practices (on the example of the Zhetysu Region)” the next stage of field research was conducted in the Aksu, Sarkand and Alakol districts of the Zhetysu Region from 14 to 28 August 2026. The following members of the project team participated in the collection of empirical data: Project supervisor N.K. Baigabatova, Senior Research Fellow A.M. Abyzova, Research Fellow G.I. Ishkalova and Junior Research Fellow V.T. Yenseyeva.

The research focused on examining the everyday lives, adaptive strategies, and integration practices of ethnic repatriates from China and Mongolia residing in the respective regions. During the fieldwork, interviews and surveys were conducted among repatriates and members of the local population. Observations and informal conversations were also carried out, alongside work with archival materials. In addition, meetings were held with representatives of local government authorities to discuss issues related to the social situation, employment, settlement patterns, and integration of repatriates.

The preliminary findings indicate a generally favorable social environment. The majority of surveyed repatriates expressed positive attitudes toward their lives in Kazakhstan and demonstrated a relatively high degree of integration into local communities.

The collected materials will be used for further analysis of the adaptation and integration of repatriates, as well as for the preparation of academic publications and project reporting materials.