Abstract
In modern developed countries, special attention is paid to the issues of power decentralization. In the Republic of Kazakhstan, the formation of local self-government as a social institution is also underway. The involvement of citizens in this process contributes to a better solution of problems at the local level in accordance with the interests of the citizens themselves. The article substantiates the need for the participation of the rural population in local self-government. The main forms of participation of the inhabitants of rural districts in local self-government are described. The authors, based on the data of a sociological survey conducted in rural areas of the Karaganda region, analyzed the level of civic engagement in solving issues of local importance. In addition, the main results achieved so far in the issues of involving the rural population in participation in local self-government in Kazakhstan are identified. The main problems existing in this direction are revealed. The prospects for their solution are outlined.