Studies on the Middle East in Russia

Abstract

Russian studies on the Middle East are addressed at international institutions, states, and non-state actors. Along with that, Russian researchers concentrate their focus on different fields of the region’s development. Here, we can see and read in-depth research on economic, political, and military trends, as well as the soft power models working in the area. Doing that, Russian academia and experts wish to realize the country’s place in the area. The Middle East in today’s Russian science and expertise can be also seen with an institutional dimension. It can be represented by a variety of institutions. The community consists of traditional academic institutions affiliated with the Russian Academy of Sciences and university departments and centers. There are dozens of qualified scientists who spent many research years in the area who use knowledge of Middle Eastern languages and specifics of countries and regional dynamics. However, there also exist a few institutes that have to do with foreign and national security analysis and the policy-planning process. The latter have an impact on Russian policy decisions in relation to the Middle East.