2025-01-19-世界银行-2024年哈萨克斯坦贫困与公平评估（英）_82页_29mb

Kazakhstan has seen significant poverty reduction from its upper-middle-income status achieved in 2014, but challenges remain. Since 2006, the poverty rate fell from 49.5% to 8.5% due to high economic growth, with 5.9 million people lifted out of poverty between 2006–2021. Growth slowed after 2013, and inequality rose after 2016, with regional disparities persisting, particularly in rural areas. Despite progress in human development, gaps remain between income groups and regions.

Fiscal policy has a limited but positive impact on reducing poverty and inequality, with targeted social transfers helping vulnerable households during economic downturns. However, tax collection remains low, and indirect taxes disproportionately affect low-income families. The target vulnerability threshold is US$10.3 per adult, equivalent to consumption poverty of US$258 per person per day.

Human capital is a key driver of poverty reduction and sustainable growth. While access to education is universal, quality and equity remain concerns. Students in lower-income households underperform in PISA and national tests, with significant regional disparities. Human capital accumulation is associated with digital skill development, which varies by age, gender, and education level.

Climate change is a growing threat to vulnerable populations, with soil degradation, floods, and droughts disproportionately affecting rural communities. Investments in climate resilience, renewable energy, and financial protection programs are essential to mitigate these risks. Overall, inclusive policies, equitable resource allocation, and human capital development are critical for continued poverty reduction and long-term growth in Kazakhstan.