Political views of ethnic minorities: the case of the Russian ethnic minority of Latvia

After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, all ex-Soviet states had Russian ethnic minorities who migrated there before 1991. Some countries have strong connections with Russia. Others, such as the Baltic States, have preferred to follow the path of European integration. However, it is unclear how Russian ethnic communities forming a tangible diaspora within some non- Russian states would develop their political views. The Russian-speaking community of Latvia represents a quarter of the country’s population. This community is not homogenous and has a variety of political opinions. Focusing on the social identity theory, this study collects evidence of how the Russian ethnic minority includes pro-European or pro-Russian attitudes on sanctioning policies against Russia introduced in response to the Russian aggression in Ukraine. In the study, Russian speakers residing in Latvia are invited to participate in a questionnaire about their views on the European Union, Russia, and sanctions...Show moreAfter the dissolution of the Soviet Union, all ex-Soviet states had Russian ethnic minorities who migrated there before 1991. Some countries have strong connections with Russia. Others, such as the Baltic States, have preferred to follow the path of European integration. However, it is unclear how Russian ethnic communities forming a tangible diaspora within some non- Russian states would develop their political views. The Russian-speaking community of Latvia represents a quarter of the country’s population. This community is not homogenous and has a variety of political opinions. Focusing on the social identity theory, this study collects evidence of how the Russian ethnic minority includes pro-European or pro-Russian attitudes on sanctioning policies against Russia introduced in response to the Russian aggression in Ukraine. In the study, Russian speakers residing in Latvia are invited to participate in a questionnaire about their views on the European Union, Russia, and sanctions against Russia. Data collected through the questionnaire seeks to analyse how ethnic background influences political opinions. Findings of the study suggest that within one ethnic minority, people can express diametrically different views, regardless of the shared ethnic background.Show less

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Political views of ethnic minorities: the case of the Russian ethnic minority of Latvia