Current state of cross-border communication in the Southwest of Russia

Abstract

This research is dedicated to examination of the main peculiarities of development of cross-border communication in the Southwest of Russia. Attention is focused on cross-border cooperation between Russia and Ukraine, which in recent times due to a number of political and cultural-civilizational factor has undergone significant transformations. The goal of this study consists in analysis and discussion of the key indicators of cross-border cooperation (migration, economy, communication) in the Southwest of Russia. The main vectors in relationship between the two countries include cross-border migration, cross-border economic cooperation, and cross-cultural communication. On each vector of development of cross-border communication, the author conduct comprehensive assessment of the dynamics of mutual movement of citizens, trade turnover, character of cross-cultural and information-educational communication, as well as analysis of cross-border policy of two countries regarding the determination of institutional barriers impeding its development. In the course of research, the author identifies the negative trends of cross-border communication of two countries, as well as proposes a number of strategies on transformation of the current state of affairs, namely the advancement of “soft power” technologies and mechanisms of “public diplomacy”. It is underlines that cross-border communication in the area of cultural and information cooperation between Russia and Ukraine should lean on the shared historical experience and cultural-civilizational commonness.