Prohibitory Signs and Control of Public Space in Kazachstan

Abstract

This article draws upon the empirical research carried out in Kazakhstan between 2019 and 2022, which explored the role of public prohibitory signs in the regulation and con­trol of behaviour in the public space. The methodological approaches of ethnography and visual sociology were applied in this research. In particular, non­participant observation, as well as documenting public spaces and prohibitory signs located in these spaces by taking photographs were employed.

In the article, visual data – photographs – are presented and analysed. This analysis is complemented by insights from the non­participant observation. The research finds that the abundance of micro­level formal rules regulating everyday life demonstrates a patriarchal mistrust­based relationship between the government and the people, yet this practice is normalised in the society.