In Search for Coherence in a Dynamic Context: Post-February 24 Ideological Construction in Russia

• In Event: The Evolution of the Putin Regime's Ideology

Abstract

In this presentation I argue that the Russian regime does have an ideology, in the sense of a relatively consistent and coherent political project for Russia and aspirations to build a new world order. This ideology is based on a set of beliefs that has evolved over the years while remaining true to its core principles. However, it draws on an eclectic doctrinal stock and multiple (sometimes contradictory) repertoires, and sees content as situational and therefore malleable. With the war, proponents of an officialization of a state ideology—all from the hawkish part of the Russian establishment—have been gaining weight: the Presidential Administration now mostly reproduces language and tropes that have long been present in the security and military realm and have become the official doxa. Yet while new indoctrination methods and textbooks are been introduced to the school system, the Kremlin has not so far recreated a Soviet-style ideological monolith: even in the context of war, it appears hesitant to engage in excessive “true teaching,” preferring a functional, technocratic understanding of ideology. After briefly defining what ideology means for the Putin regime, this presentation explores how the main set of beliefs, strategic narratives, and doctrines have stabilized and gained increased internal coherence.

Author

• Marlene Laruelle, George Washington U