Youth civic engagement in Almaty: unpacking motivations, concerns and perceived trade-offs

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ABSTRACT Notwithstanding a growing focus on civic engagement in Kazakhstan, there is a shortage of information regarding its connection with the younger generation. This study examines youth civic engagement in Almaty through the analysis of survey data in the framework of self-determination theory (SDT) and expectancy-value theory (EVT). The main goal is to understand the motivations, concerns and perceived advantages/disadvantages of young Kazakhstanis involved in civic initiatives. Results show that youth are active in civic life to learn new skills, enhance their communities and fulfil their moral obligations. Civic involvement is also thought to improve knowledge and abilities and make new acquaintances. Instead, time and information constraints hamper young civic engagement. The most significant downsides are civic activity’s psychological, physical and temporal demands. By identifying the aspects that should be given priority to encourage and empower young adults in civic participation, this study might contribute to youth policy development in Kazakhstan.