Abstract
In the context of the modernization of the penitentiary system of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the issue of terminological clarity in national legislation has become particularly relevant. In the field of sentence enforcement, the categories of “resocialization,” “social adaptation,” “social rehabilitation,” and “reintegration” are used simultaneously, leading to conceptual ambiguity. The purpose of this study is to identify the legal nature, content, and correlation of these concepts, as well as to substantiate the need for their legislative unification. An analysis of the Criminal Executive Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Law “On Probation,” and departmental regulations has revealed the absence of a unified approach to the terms “resocialization” and “reintegration,” resulting in duplication of their legal content and uncertainty regarding the competencies of state authorities. Based on an examination of statistical indicators of recidivism and the employment rate of released persons, the article demonstrates that a formalistic approach to definitions reduces the effectiveness of targeted support for citizens. The main scientific outcome of the study is the justification for transitioning to a single integrative concept of “resocialization” as the term that most comprehensively encompasses all stages of an individual’s return to society. The practical value of the work lies in the author's recommendations, which can be used to improve the regulatory framework, enhance the effectiveness of penitentiary institutions, and strengthen the activities of probation services.