The Republic of Kazakhstan

Jewish merchants have a long-standing history in Central Asia, particularly along the Great Silk Road. However, it was not until the mid-19th century, during the Russian Empire's expansion into the Kazakh steppes, that Jewish communities began to settle in the region in substantial numbers. The Jewish population in Kazakhstan reached its peak of approximately 700,000 during the Second World War.

The revival of Jewish community activity commenced in 1989. By 1995, cultural and religious centers had been established in all major cities. Synagogues are currently active in Nur-Sultan, Pavlodar, Ust-Kamenogorsk, Shymkent, Karaganda, and Kostanay. In addition, the JFuture Jewish Sunday School is operational in Almaty.