Throughout history, Kazakh women have held a central role in the economic and cultural structures of their communities. The productivity, resilience, and sense of solidarity required by the nomadic way of life made women not only the cornerstone of family life but also of the social and economic order. In the modern era, this historical legacy has been reshaped in new ways in contemporary Kazakhstan. In particular, the tourism sector stands out as a field that enhances women’s participation in social life, strengthens their financial independence, and supports sustainable development.
In Kazakhstan, women have emerged as one of the most innovative and dynamic forces in the tourism sector. They play influential roles not only as part of the workforce but also as entrepreneurs, guides, cultural ambassadors, and advocates of sustainable development. In the development of local tourism, women make significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage by transforming traditional handicrafts and culinary culture into economic opportunities. Tourism projects led by women contribute to improving the well-being of local communities, creating employment, and supporting regional development.
Beyond this, women in Kazakhstan are becoming increasingly active in social, economic, and cultural spheres. In recent years, their participation in public administration, education, entrepreneurship, and civil society has risen remarkably. Women are regarded as a cornerstone of the country’s sustainable development vision. Through their knowledge, creativity, and leadership skills, they are guiding a new phase of transformation. In particular, the active involvement of young women in environment-, technology-, and culture-based initiatives brings dynamism to Kazakhstan’s modernization process. The gender equality policies pursued by Kazakhstan have also enhanced women’s visibility in decision-making processes, aligning closely with the country’s goals of social justice and inclusiveness.
Kazakhstan has partnered with the United Nations Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) as part of the international program “Centre Stage.” This initiative aims to enhance women’s participation in the tourism sector, strengthen their professional capacities, and support their leadership roles. The growing prominence of women in tourism is viewed not only as an indicator of economic growth but also as a guarantee of social equality and sustainable development. The program fosters partnerships among governments, local authorities, and the private sector to promote women’s effective involvement in decision-making processes and improve their access to education and financial resources.[i]
Almaty, recognized as the cultural heart and tourism hub of Kazakhstan, is one of the cities where the initiative has been effectively implemented. For many years, women in the city have played active roles in various fields ranging from tour guiding and hotel management to cultural promotion and gastronomy. Within the scope of the program, intensive three-month training sessions, skill development courses for 200 women, and financial incentives supporting female entrepreneurs have been introduced.[ii]
In addition, one of the most significant initiatives aimed at strengthening gender equality in tourism, the “Almaty Call for Action for Women,” envisions gender-responsive budgeting, support for women-led businesses, and increased female representation in decision-making processes. The Conference on Empowering Women in Tourism in Europe, scheduled to be held in Almaty on 22–23 October 2025, is expected to further enhance the regional dimension of this program. During the conference, experts from Europe and Central Asia will discuss joint strategies to promote women’s roles in tourism. The event, where female entrepreneurs will share their experiences, is intended to serve as an inspiring example at the regional level.[iii]
Today, women in Kazakhstan are not only partners in economic growth but also key bearers of cultural identity and social solidarity. Their active participation contributes to the country’s progress toward a more competitive, innovative, and sustainable future on the international stage.
The economic empowerment of women generates positive outcomes for family structures, local communities, and national identity. The example of Almaty demonstrates that women’s empowerment is not merely an individual success story but also a fundamental element for ensuring the sustainability of social welfare. Women’s creative vision and leadership skills are guiding tourism toward a more balanced future in environmental, economic, and cultural terms. At this stage, Kazakhstan has the potential to serve as a regional role model. Considering these examples, the rise of women’s leadership in the country will transform tourism into a more inclusive, equitable, and resilient sector.
[i] “Казахстан присоединяется к инициативе ООН по туризму «Центральная сцена» по расширению прав и возможностей женщин в процветающем туристическом секторе Алматы”, Travel and Tour World, https://www.travelandtourworld.ru/news/article/kazakhstan-joins-un-tourisms-centre-stage-initiative-to-empower-women-in-almatys-thriving-tourism-sector/, (Accessed: 05.10.2025).
[ii] “UN Tourism and Almaty put Kazakh women Centre Stage of tourism development”, UN Tourism, https://www.untourism.int/news/un-tourism-and-almaty-put-kazakh-women-centre-stage-of-tourism-development, (Accessed: 05.10.2025).
[iii] “Almaty Puts Kazakh Women in Tourism at the Forefront with New UN Initiative”, Travel and Tour World, https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/almaty-puts-kazakh-women-in-tourism-at-the-forefront-with-new-un-initiative/, (Accessed: 05.10.2025).
