Kazakhstan Releases First Textbook on Using Development Aid as Soft Power Tool – The Astana Times

Kazakhstan Launches First Comprehensive Textbook on Official Development Assistance (ODA) Emphasizing Sustainable Development Goals

Introduction

The Kazakhstan Agency for International Development (KazAID), in collaboration with Gumilyov Eurasian National University (ENU), has published the country’s inaugural comprehensive textbook focused on Official Development Assistance (ODA) and its pivotal role in enhancing Kazakhstan’s soft power internationally.

Significance of the Publication

This publication represents a significant milestone in Kazakhstan’s development trajectory, illustrating the nation’s evolution from an aid recipient to an emerging donor capable of supporting global development efforts. The establishment of a national ODA system and the foundation of KazAID highlight Kazakhstan’s strengthened statehood, economic advancement, and elevated international profile.

Development of Kazakhstan’s ODA Framework

1. Recognition as an Upper-Middle-Income Country: Kazakhstan’s economic progress has enabled it to transition into a donor country.
2. Legal Framework Adoption: The country has implemented a legal structure to govern development cooperation effectively.
3. OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC) Invitation: Kazakhstan’s inclusion in the OECD DAC marks its commitment to international development standards.
4. Launch of KazAID: KazAID serves as the national operator managing ODA initiatives.

Focus on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The textbook places significant emphasis on how Kazakhstan’s ODA efforts align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the following areas:

• SDG 1: No Poverty – Supporting poverty reduction projects in Central Asia and beyond.
• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Implementing health-related development programs.
• SDG 4: Quality Education – Promoting educational initiatives through development aid.
• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Facilitating economic development and job creation.
• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Strengthening international cooperation and partnerships.

Comparative Analysis of Soft Power Models

The textbook provides a comparative study of soft power strategies employed by countries such as the United States and Japan. It explores how development aid serves as a tool to advance foreign policy objectives and foster international goodwill, thereby enhancing Kazakhstan’s diplomatic influence.

KazAID’s Practical Experience and Projects

KazAID’s operational experience in Central Asia and other regions is detailed, showcasing both completed and ongoing projects that contribute to sustainable development and regional stability.

Authors and Contributors

• Arken Arystanov, Chairman of KazAID and Doctor of Economics
• Aigerim Ospanova, Professor at Gumilyov Eurasian National University
• Akbota Zholdasbekova, Professor at Gumilyov Eurasian National University

Visual Representation

Photo credit: KazAID

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
   • The article discusses Official Development Assistance (ODA), international cooperation, and Kazakhstan’s role in global development partnerships, directly linking to SDG 17 which focuses on strengthening global partnerships for sustainable development.
2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • Kazakhstan’s transformation from an aid recipient to a donor reflects economic progress and strengthened statehood, which aligns with SDG 8’s emphasis on sustained economic growth.
3. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • The establishment of a national ODA system and legal frameworks for development cooperation indicate strengthened institutions and governance, relevant to SDG 16.
4. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • By assisting other countries through ODA, Kazakhstan contributes to reducing inequalities between nations, which is a core aim of SDG 10.

2. Specific Targets Under the Identified SDGs

1. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
   • Target 17.3: Mobilize additional financial resources for developing countries from multiple sources.
   • Target 17.9: Enhance international support for implementing effective and targeted capacity-building in developing countries to support national plans.
   • Target 17.17: Encourage and promote effective public, public-private, and civil society partnerships.
2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • Target 8.1: Sustain per capita economic growth in accordance with national circumstances.
3. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • Target 16.6: Develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions at all levels.
4. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • Target 10.6: Ensure enhanced representation and voice for developing countries in decision-making in global international economic and financial institutions.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article

1. ODA Volume and Flow
   • Implied indicator: Net official development assistance (ODA) flows, total and to developing countries, by donor (related to SDG 17.3).
2. Membership and Participation in International Bodies
   • Indicator related to Kazakhstan’s invitation to join the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC), reflecting enhanced participation in global partnerships (SDG 17.17 and 10.6).
3. Establishment and Functioning of National ODA Systems
   • Indicator related to the existence and operational status of national institutions managing ODA, reflecting progress on Target 16.6.
4. Economic Progress Measures
   • Implied indicators such as GDP per capita growth and upper-middle-income status recognition, relevant to SDG 8.1.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: astanatimes.com