Abstract:
This study investigates the phenomenon of religious conversion among non-Muslim nationalities in
Kazakhstan following the collapse of the Soviet government and the resurgence of interest in Islam.
Through sociologically in-depth interviews, the research reveals that low religious awareness,
marriage to a Muslim, social influence, and the presence of a local Muslim community are pivotal
factors driving this conversion process. Moreover, the study highlights the broader societal context,
including post-Soviet spiritual quests and the quest for meaning, as contributing to the growing
interest in religion. As a result of religious conversion, individuals from various backgrounds
experience a profound transformation of their personal identity, transitioning from a Christian to a
Muslim identity. This transformation fosters closer relations with the Muslim majority in Kazakhstan,
promoting social cohesion and unity in a society where Islam has a significant presence.
