Russia's Relations with the European Union: A Constructivist Cut

Abstract

This study applies constructivist insights to an analysis of Russia's relations with the European Union (EU). Demonstrating the emergence of a post-Soviet identity based on the principles of democracy and market relations, I argue that, since relations between the two parties were established in 1991, Russia has been looking to the EU for recognition of its new identity. This development, in turn, is explained by the ideational weight of the EU — it is widely seen as the epitome of “Europe.” The study also argues that Moscow will continue to attach great importance to this part of its relationship with Brussels; the combination of continued domestic reforms and an enlarging EU makes it even more imperative for Russia to be recognised by this organisation as a state adhering to “Western” norms. Any failure on part of the EU — and other European security organisations — to extend this recognition in response to real changes may jeopardise reforms as the Russian population, rather than seeing rewards for its efforts, is subjected to continued rejection.