Svetlana Kozhirova

This study examines the role of public administration tools in special economic zones (SEZs) in China and Kazakhstan. The aim of this study is to conduct a comparative analysis of public administration tools in SEZs of both countries, focusing on governance models, regulatory frameworks, investment incentives, and their impact on economic performance. The methodology includes a review of the historical development and current practices of SEZs in both nations, especially comparing the special economic zones of Shenzhen and Astana. This involves analyzing governance structures, tax incentives, and policies impacting FDI and technology transfer using both qualitative and quantitative data. The study concludes that the effectiveness of public administration tools in SEZs depends on governance structures and alignment with national economic goals, highlighting the need for flexible governance models to maximize the economic benefits of SEZs. Findings indicate that China’s decentralized governance was a key factor in its significant and rapid economic growth, providing an example for Kazakhstan to study further and potentially implement, as it grants more decision-making autonomy to local SEZ authorities. The key recommendations are that the adaptivity of public administration strategies plays a vital role in fostering the efficiency of SEZs and attracting high technological industries for Kazakhstan.

Acknowledgment
This research is funded by the Committee of Science of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Project No. BR24993082).

Type of the article: Research Article

Abstract
This study aims to assess the impact of key components of quality of life, including human capital, social accessibility, and industrial development, on effective territorial development management in Kazakhstan. The study uses an index approach, cluster and correlation analysis, and Markov transition models. The empirical dataset covers 17 regions of Kazakhstan over the period 2013–2023 and is based on official annual statistics, including indicators of education (number of students and teaching staff), employment, income, digital infrastructure, and industrial development. The Quality of Life Index (QLI) was calculated using normalized variables, followed by regional grouping and dynamic modeling. Results indicate that the highest QLI values in 2023 were recorded in Astana city (0.837), Mangystau (0.790), and Shymkent city (0.771), where educational coverage and academic staffing are significantly higher than in other regions. Correlation analysis reveals that industrial development (r = 0.493, p = 0.052) and educational potential (ρ = 0.491, p = 0.045) are positively associated with regional upward transitions in quality of life. Cluster analysis identified three stable groups of regions: with active social transformation (e.g., Mangystau, Kyzylorda), balanced growth (Karaganda, Pavlodar), and limited dynamics (Turkistan, East-Kazakhstan). Thus, regions with strong educational infrastructure and dynamic labor markets, such as the Mangystau region, Astana and Shymkent cities, consistently outperform in QLI. In contrast, structurally lagging regions, such as Turkistan and East Kazakhstan, exhibit limited social mobility and weak institutional support. Consequently, investment in human capital is essential for reducing regional disparities and promoting sustainable territorial development.

Acknowledgments
This research has been funded by the Science Committee of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan (“Modernization of the quality assurance system of higher education in Kazakhstan based on digitalization: development of approaches, mechanisms and informationbase” No.BR24992974).