THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC SITUATION OF THE POPULATION OF THE REGIONS OF THE ABAI REGION IN THE CONTEXT OF THE CONSEQUENCES OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS TESTS

Abstract

The problem of the former Semipalatinsk nuclear test site remains relevant, despite its closure over thirty years ago. Studies of environmental, epidemiological, physiological and other impact factors are conducted regularly. Thus, the purpose of this study was to assess the socio–economic condition of the population of areas classified as areas of extreme radiation risk. In this regard, as part of this task, information was collected on the socio-economic status of the regions selected for the study using data from the Bureau of National Statistics of the Agency for Strategic Planning and Reforms of the Republic of Kazakhstan, local executive bodies and a survey of the population using a quantitative research method. Quantitative data assessed the levels of public satisfaction with the quality of infrastructure, medical care, and social services. As a comparison, the region that was not affected by the effects of nuclear tests was chosen – the Arshaly district of the Akmola region.

The results obtained indicate a low assessment of the quality of medical services and social infrastructure in settlements from the zone of extreme radiation risk – Sarzhal, Cheryomushka, Dolon, and Bridge. At the same time, there is a relatively high degree of satisfaction with the quality of infrastructure among the population of the district centers of Beskaragai and Abai districts of the Abai region. At the same time, the majority of residents of the studied areas have low satisfaction with the quality of drinking water.