Reconceptualizing Diaspora Mobilization in the Global South: The Case of the Russian Diaspora in Turkey

Emerging Russian Diasporas and Anti-war Movements Research Network (ERDAM)

19 September 2024, 12:00–13:30 CET, online

Traditional diaspora studies often highlight communities from the Global South navigating life in Western democracies. In contrast, this presentation explores the mobilisation strategies of Russians in an illiberal state, Turkey. By examining the evolving Russian diaspora in Turkey, this study aims to elucidate how transnational groups leverage opportunity structures within non-democratic regimes. The presentation will delve into how the Russians in Turkey navigates its complex political landscape, adapts to its illiberal context, and finds avenues for social, political, and economic engagement. It will address the dual pressures of maintaining connections with their homeland while integrating into a host country with its own geopolitical tensions. Ultimately, this examination reveals how the Russian diaspora’s strategies might differ from established models of diaspora behavior in democratic settings, contributing to a broader understanding of diaspora dynamics in diverse political environments.

Speakers
Prof. Dr. Bahar Baser (Durham University)

Discussant
PD Dr. Tsypylma Darieva (ZOiS)

Moderation
Prof. Dr. Inta Mieriņa (University of Latvia)

The online event can be accessed via this Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84545263416?pwd=IUWwCiTf21lg9iYHcqukDrXUzZJJz1.1

For further questions or information, please contact domas.lavrukaitis(at)zois-berlin(dot)de.