Comparative Analysis of Youth Religiosity in Kazakhstan and Poland: Navigating Faith in Modern Societies

Authors

Arailym Zhanabayeva, Egyptian University of Islamic Culture Nur-MubarakFollow
Myrzakhmet Juzei, Al-Farabi Kazakh National UniversityFollow
Nagima Baitenova, Al-Farabi Kazakh National UniversityFollow
Zhanna Zhurgenbayeva, Egyptian University of Islamic Culture Nur-MubarakFollow

Author ORCID Identifier

Arailym Zhanabayeva:

 https://orcid.org/0009-0001-3276-5513

Myrzakhmet Juzei:

 https://orcid.org/0009-0004-4267-2937

Nagima Baitenova:

 https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8318-4196

Zhanna Zhurgenbayeva:

 https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5483-4006

Abstract

This paper explores the complex relationship between religion and youth culture, focusing on Kazakhstan and Poland. Kazakhstan, with its ethnic diversity and dominant Islamic faith, is navigating a post-Soviet search for identity and renewed interest in traditional spiritual practices. Poland, deeply rooted in Catholicism, is experiencing secular trends and global influences that are reshaping youth religious engagement. The research aims to enrich discussions on youth religiosity and the evolving interplay between spiritual belief and modern life across different political and cultural contexts. The primary objective of this study is to examine the evolution of modern Kazakh society's approach to religion, drawing on comparative insights from Central Asian and European contexts to better understand contemporary trends in faith and belief systems. The study employed a combination of systemanalytical, historical, statistical, forecasting, and analytical methods. The system-analytical approach helped identify and explore youth attitudes toward religious doctrines in both regions. The historical method provided a deeper understanding of how Central Asian states have shaped their religious policies. The article highlights the distinct yet interconnected religious landscapes of Kazakhstan and Poland, providing a comprehensive overview of youth religious engagement in diverse cultural and political settings.

Recommended Citation

Zhanabayeva, Arailym; Juzei, Myrzakhmet; Baitenova, Nagima; and Zhurgenbayeva, Zhanna (2026) "Comparative Analysis of Youth Religiosity in Kazakhstan and Poland: Navigating Faith in Modern Societies," Occasional Papers on Religion in Eastern Europe: Vol. 46 : Iss. 1 , Article 12.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.55221/2693-2229.2713
Available at: https://digitalcommons.georgefox.edu/ree/vol46/iss1/12