Memorandum for the Russian Identity & Governance Research Initiative (RIGRI)

About Us

The Russian Identity & Governance Research Initiative (RIGRI) is a newly established research centre dedicated to addressing critical gaps in understanding Russian identity and governance. In an era marked by a crisis of expertise on Russia—driven by an overreliance on the "end of history" narrative and a decline in research on national identity and self-determination—RIGRI provides specialised, rigorous analysis. We challenge standardised approaches that treat Russia as a typical state, instead recognising the unique complexities of its identity, which spans ethnic, civic, historical, and diasporic dimensions. RIGRI’s establishment is driven by a dual recognition: first, standard analytical frameworks have often fallen short of forecasting or explaining shifts in Russian policy and society. Second, national identity studies remain underutilised in shaping both academic debate and policy decisions. Through innovative, interdisciplinary research, RIGRI aims to inform policy, scholarship, and public discourse with accurate, nuanced, and actionable insights into one of the most pivotal global actors of the 21st century.


Mission and Values:

Mission

To advance a sophisticated and innovative understanding of Russian identity and governance through independent, interdisciplinary, evidence-based research. RIGRI seeks to move beyond traditional analyses by combining advanced methodologies, on-the-ground engagement, and distinct theoretical lenses to provide cutting-edge insights and practical guidance to policymakers, scholars, and the public, contributing to informed policy and dialogue on Russia’s historical roots, cultural transformations, and global influence.

Values

  • Independence: Safeguarding autonomy from political, governmental, or commercial pressures to ensure credible, unbiased research.

  • Scholarly Integrity & Objectivity: Upholding honesty, transparency, and evidence-based findings through peer-reviewed processes.

  • Excellence & Innovation: Employing state-of-the-art methodologies and continuously refining approaches to set new standards in research.

  • Open Debate & Inclusivity: Encouraging diverse perspectives and fostering constructive dialogue through collaboration with academia, civil society, and policy sectors.

  • Policy Impact: Striving to influence policy discussions with actionable, context-specific findings.

  • Distinct Philosophical Framework: Applying unique theoretical lenses—drawing on critical identity studies, postcolonial theory, and new nationalism frameworks—to challenge traditional views and deepen understanding of Russian society.

Research Agenda

RIGRI’s research centres on the multifaceted nature of Russian identity and its implications for governance, both nationally and globally. Our core areas of study include:

  1. Russian Identity & National Self-Determination: Examining pluralistic and paradoxical aspects of Russian identities, such as conflicting doctrines (e.g., "Russian" vs. "Rossiyanin"), substitution of ethnic and civil concepts, and their effects on societal cohesion and governance.

  2. Global Implications of Russian Identity: Investigating how Russia’s self-perception shapes its foreign policy, geopolitics, and security interests, with a particular focus on its diaspora—the third largest globally—and its role in regional and international affairs.

  3. Comparative and Conceptual Analysis: Exploring broader themes, such as the "fraternal people" concept among East Slavic groups, the historical debate between ethnic and civic identities, and whether Russia functions as a nation-state for ethnic Russians or a broader nationalist entity with implications for neighbouring countries.

To distinguish our work, RIGRI employs innovative methodologies that may include fieldwork that has been overlooked.

Activities

RIGRI pursues its mission through a diverse set of initiatives designed to generate knowledge and drive impact:

  • Research and Publishing: Conducting original studies and disseminating findings through reports, academic papers, and policy briefs.

  • Events: Organizing workshops, seminars, and conferences to facilitate dialogue among experts, policymakers, and stakeholders.

  • Media Engagement: Providing expert commentary to inform public discourse on Russian identity and governance.

  • Collaboration: Partnering with academic institutions, think tanks, regional experts, diaspora networks, and grassroots organisations worldwide.

  • Practical Impact Initiatives: Offering scenario planning, simulations, and direct briefings to policymakers; developing local partnerships; and providing tailored workshops to enhance cultural and historical awareness for context-specific strategies.

Governance

RIGRI operates as a non-profit research institute, governed by a board of trustees. An advisory council of international experts guides the research agenda, ensuring global relevance and perspectives. RIGRI maintains transparency and accountability by issuing regular public reports on research findings, funding sources, and operations, adhering to the highest standards of ethical integrity.

Conclusion

The Russian Identity and Governance Research Initiative (RIGRI) responds to an urgent need for fresh, specialized research on Russian identity—research that not only analyses current trends but also anticipates future developments. By combining innovative methods, a clear theoretical lens, and hands-on engagement with partners on the ground, RIGRI generates actionable insights to inform policy, scholarship, and public understanding. In a world where predictive expertise on Russia has often faltered, RIGRI stands ready to set a new standard for rigorous inquiry, forward-thinking analysis, and open dialogue. Through our commitment to excellence, independence, and inclusivity, RIGRI will serve as a trusted authority, transforming how we understand Russia’s evolving role on the global stage. As we embark on this mission, we assert that a new perspective on Russia’s identity is not merely an academic exercise—it is the key to understanding our collective future.