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Abstract:

Decolonisation processes are gaining momentum in Kazakhstan. The reinterpretation of history is becoming increasingly important in the context of a new objective view of national history. In our opinion, decolonial discourse can help to identify 'white spots' in the rehabilitation of the repressed. The Holodomor, repressions, and economic experiments conducted by the Soviet state left a tragic mark on the history of the Kazakh people. This caused a significant shift in the mentality and values of the Kazakh nation. Therefore, an objective political assessment of that period is necessary, not for revenge, but for historical justice and remembrance.

Kazakhstan commemorates the Day of Remembrance of Victims of Political Repression on 31 May. However, unlike the heated debates that have recently erupted on the eve of Victory Day, this day is relatively quiet. It is crucial to maintain objectivity and avoid subjective evaluations when discussing such sensitive topics. It is important to note that historical dates associated with the Soviet past can be points of contention for some sectors of post-Soviet society, leading to a divisive «us» vs «them» mentality.

Today, some members of Kazakhstani society believe that the official ideology deliberately downplays the significance of this date. This perspective is evident in discussions on social media. Those who are patriotic view this «default figure» as a political gesture towards Russia, the successor of the Soviet Union.