Kazakh lawmaker champions military-patriotic education to reshape national duty

Natalya Dementyeva, a member of Kazakhstan’s Mazhilis, is pushing for stronger military-patriotic education across the country. She argues that raising responsible citizens begins long before conscription—starting in families and schools. Her own son, Adikhan, completed his mandatory service in December 2021, an experience she says transformed him for the better. Dementyeva’s approach centres on three key areas: modernising basic military training, expanding patriotic education, and building public trust in the armed forces. She regularly takes part in conscription campaigns and visits military units to promote these goals. According to her, military service should be viewed as an honour, not just a legal requirement.

Kazakhstan’s system integrates early lessons on state symbols, military-patriotic clubs, and foundational defence training. The aim is to foster a sense of personal duty toward protecting the homeland, rather than treating it as a mere obligation. Dementyeva also stresses the need for cooperation between families, schools, and the state to reinforce these values. Her son’s service left a lasting impression on her. After his time in the military, she noticed he had become more disciplined, independent, and responsible. This personal experience has strengthened her belief in the positive impact of structured military-patriotic education. Beyond training, Dementyeva highlights the role of information-ideological support in defence. This includes promoting patriotism while actively countering harmful or misleading narratives that could undermine public confidence in the army.

Dementyeva’s efforts focus on reshaping how military service is perceived in Kazakhstan. By embedding patriotic values early and improving training standards, she aims to create a culture where defending the country is seen as both a duty and a privilege. Her work continues through policy discussions, public engagement, and direct involvement in conscription processes.