The sharp rise in the price of liquefied gas was the last straw that sparked massive protests in Kazakhstan. French sociologist Karine Clement is sure of this, who expressed her position in an interview with French Radio International. (RFI).
Karen Clement recalls the protests that took place in previous years, including the 2011 oil strike in the town of Zhanaozen, Mangistau Oblast, which ended in the shooting of protesters. According to her, what is happening in Kazakhstan is a typical example of a “grassroots” popular revolt, especially since the demands of the protesters are mainly economic and social.
The sociologist disagrees with the assumptions about the “West-inspired” nature of the protests, pointing out that the notorious “West” is represented rather in the ranks of the ruling elites of Kazakhstan, including the main shareholders of mining companies. According to her, it is the spontaneous nature of the riot and the protesters’ readiness for reckless and brutal actions that indicate that ordinary people are involved in the unrest, mainly “strong men, like middle-aged hard workers” and youth irritated by unemployment – people driven to despair.
Source: Rosbalt
Tristin is an accomplished author and journalist, known for his in-depth and engaging writing on sports. He currently works as a writer at 247 News Agency, where he has established himself as a respected voice in the sports industry.
