z-logo
open-access-imgOpen Access
Russian Ethnic Problem in Estonia
Author(s) -
Marek Żyła
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
vìsnik lʹvìvsʹkogo unìversitetu. serìâ mìžnarodnì vìdnosini
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2078-4333
DOI - 10.30970/vir.2019.47.0.10979
Subject(s) - estonian , ethnic group , population , politics , geopolitics , independence (probability theory) , homeland , political science , ukrainian , state (computer science) , multiculturalism , political economy , development economics , sociology , law , philosophy , linguistics , statistics , demography , mathematics , algorithm , computer science , economics
Due to historical conditions, the area of modern Estonia is multi-ethnic and multicultural. The influx of Russian people and extensive Sovietization led to the nationalization of part of the local community. This was accompanied by the marginalization of the Estonian language. Top-down Russian-Soviet ethnic policy has led to partial national degeneration and a percentage decline in the Estonian population, as well as a rapid increase in the number of Russians and the Russian-speaking population. A broad statistical approach to national transformations in the lands of modern Estonia, taken from a historical perspective, proves that ethnic changes were determined by geopolitical conditions. An important role from the point of view of national security policy is played by the Russian minority, which after the collapse of the Soviet Union lost its previous privileged social position. This population largely identifies with the tradition of the past system. After his fall, with the regaining of independence, the citizens of Estonia began to build a new political and socio-economic order. The collapse of the Soviet system saved Estonia from the coming ethnic and cultural disaster. Regaining independence prevented the loss of ethnic identity. It also gave the opportunity to build a new social and political order. The Estonian language has regained its original meaning and became a privileged state language. The Russian and Russian-speaking factors do not facilitate this process. Rather, it promotes the reintegration of the post-Soviet area. In counteracting the above, the Estonian authorities have introduced a relatively restrictive naturalization policy. Therefore, the situation of Slavic minorities can be a source of serious socio-political problems. Key words: Russia; Estonia; nationalities; conflict.

The content you want is available to Zendy users.

Already have an account? Click here to sign in.
Having issues? You can contact us here