Russia’s Minority Institutions, Ethnic Boundaries, and Social-Humanitarian Work: A Case of Collective Responsibility?

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article analyzes the interconnection of ethnic boundary-making and collective responsibility, with reference to the social-humanitarian work of Russia’s ethnic minority organizations. Employing data from interviews with minority representatives, it shows that the notion of collective responsibility has played a role in reproducing (symbolic) ethnic boundaries, through the interplay of three factors: ethnic institutions, social networks and power distribution. These processes unfold in a sociopolitical context that places an emphasis on stability and security. Meanwhile, macro-level dynamics (state-endorsed discourses and structural conditions) interact with micro-level processes (minority representatives' experiences and actions) – both impacting upon Russia’s nationalities policy.