Near abroad policy

Definition

Near abroad policy refers to the strategic approach adopted by Russia towards the countries that were once part of the Soviet Union, focusing on maintaining influence and control over these neighboring states. This policy is rooted in historical, cultural, and geopolitical factors, with Russia viewing these nations as part of its sphere of influence and vital for its security and national interests.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The near abroad policy emerged after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 as Russia sought to reassert its influence in former Soviet territories.
2. This policy has often led to tensions between Russia and its neighbors, especially when countries seek closer ties with Western institutions like NATO or the European Union.
3. Russia uses various tools to implement its near abroad policy, including economic aid, political pressure, and military intervention, as seen in conflicts such as those in Georgia and Ukraine.
4. The near abroad concept is linked to the idea of 'Russkiy Mir' or 'Russian World', which promotes cultural and historical connections with Russian-speaking populations outside Russia's borders.
5. Critics argue that the near abroad policy reflects an imperial mindset, aiming to restore Russia's past dominance over its neighbors while undermining their sovereignty.

Review Questions

• How does the near abroad policy reflect Russia's historical relationship with former Soviet republics?
  • The near abroad policy is deeply rooted in Russia's historical ties with former Soviet republics, as it seeks to maintain influence over these nations based on shared history, culture, and language. After the Soviet Union's dissolution, Russia viewed these neighboring states not just as independent countries but as integral to its own security and national identity. This historical connection often results in a reluctance to accept their full independence, leading to various forms of intervention when they align more closely with Western countries.
• Evaluate the impact of the near abroad policy on Russia's relations with Western countries.
  • The near abroad policy has significantly strained Russia's relations with Western countries, particularly as former Soviet republics pursue closer ties with NATO and the EU. Russia perceives these moves as direct threats to its sphere of influence and responds with military actions or economic sanctions to assert its power. The ongoing tensions surrounding Ukraine illustrate how the near abroad policy complicates diplomatic relations, making it difficult for Western nations to engage with Russia while supporting the sovereignty of Eastern European countries.
• Assess the long-term implications of the near abroad policy on regional stability and security in Eastern Europe.
  • The long-term implications of the near abroad policy on regional stability in Eastern Europe are significant and complex. As Russia continues to assert its influence through this policy, it risks increasing tensions not only with neighboring countries but also with NATO and the EU. This could lead to a cycle of militarization in Eastern Europe, where countries feel compelled to bolster their defenses against potential Russian aggression. Moreover, ongoing conflicts fueled by this policy may create lasting divisions within the region, impacting economic development and cooperation among states formerly aligned under Soviet governance.

Related terms

Sovereign Democracy: A political concept in Russia that emphasizes the need for a uniquely Russian form of democracy, which prioritizes state sovereignty and stability over Western democratic ideals.

Eurasian Union: A regional economic union initiated by Russia, aimed at fostering economic integration among former Soviet republics and strengthening Russia's influence in the region.

Geopolitics: The study of the effects of geography on international politics and international relations, often influencing a nation's foreign policy decisions.