Abstract. The article is devoted to the phenomenon of Kazakh ethnic nationalism. The origins and main milestones of its formation, its manifestations in the education system, language sphere, demographic and HR politics are described. The fundamental ideas of the nationalist parties and organizations in Kazakhstan are considered and analyzed. The article emphasizes that the “Kazakhization” promoted by Kazakh national patriots contradicts the real needs of the socio-economic development of the state. The author concludes that nationalist trends are dangerous for partnership between Russia and Kazakhstan.