After independence: Islam and Muslims in Kazakhstan

After the Tsarist rule, the Soviet era subjected them to policies of secularization and assimilation into Russian culture. The Soviet Union persistently attempted to change and eliminate this framework, evident from their closure of religious places such as mosques and educational centers to erase Islam from the memory of Kazakh society. Upon gaining independence, the Republic of Kazakhstan freed itself from all oppressive and controlling mechanisms and granted its people extensive rights in the field of religion, opening its doors to foreign social and religious organizations. Thanks to these organizations, many of the mosques destroyed during the Soviet era were reconstructed, reviving the old days and nurturing national-spiritual sentiments. Despite the repressive policies of the Russians, Kazakh Muslims have managed to preserve their religion, which has been passed down from their ancestors and continues to this day. In our study, we will examine the revival of Islam in Kazakh society after it declared itself a free state following its independence. We will discuss the implementation of new laws related to religion and the rapid spread of Islam due to the state's permission. Furthermore, we will highlight the invaluable contributions of Kazakh intellectuals who dedicated themselves to the development of Islam throughout the history of Kazakhstan's territory, which greatly contributed to the remarkable activities of the institutions in the country. One such institution, the Kazakhstan Muslim Religious Administration (KMDB), played a significant role in the gradual development of Islam, particularly after gaining independence.