ANALYSIS OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND FOOD SECURITY FACTORS IN A BORDER REGION: A CASE STUDY OF THE NORTH KAZAKHSTAN REGION

Abstract

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the socio-economic development of the North Kazakhstan region and the impact of its border location on regional food security. The study was conducted based on FAO’s four-dimensional food security methodology (availability, economic and physical access, utilization, and stability). Despite the region’s high agricultural production potential, the economic access to food for the population is limited by income levels, price instability, dependency on cross-border markets, and climatic risks. The study identifies the income–price paradox, the effects of cross-border trade, and the influence of climatic factors on production stability. The findings provide a basis for developing practical recommendations to improve regional food security policies.