The Nature of Interethnic Relations in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) During the Pandemic

Abstract

The article is devoted to the analysis of interethnic relations in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) against the background of the coronavirus pandemic. The study was conducted taking into account the methodology of monitoring studies implemented by the FADN of Russia. This material presents data that allow us to make comparisons with representative ethnosociological studies carried out in the RS(Ya) in different years, and to trace the patterns of development of interethnic relations. The article presents conclusions about the state of interethnic relations in the RS (Ya) in 2020. The results of the study allow us to speak about a benevolent interethnic climate in the republic: 75% of Yakuts assess interethnic relations in the republic as benevolent and normal. These indicators are close to the all-Russian ones. The analysis of assessments of interethnic relations in the settlements of the republic for the period 2015–2020 shows a positive dynamics. The interethnic attitudes of the respondents demonstrate a positive trend – 70–80% of the respondents expressed their readiness for interethnic interactions in the labor and informal spheres. The dynamics of measurements on the Bogardus scale demonstrates a steady reduction in the socio-cultural distance. The factors influencing the current trends in interethnic attitudes are highlighted. Negative assessments of the social well-being of the population affect the perception of interethnic relations. Those who are dissatisfied with their life and financial situation are more likely to assess the interethnic situation in their locality as tense.