Tsumarova Elena | Lecturer, Petrozavodsk State University Faculty of Political and Social Sciences Chair of Political Science and International Relations, Petrozavodsk, tsumarova@gmail.com |
Ключевые слова: Identity politics Republic of Karelia Northern Europe cooperation identity | Аннотация: This article aims to analyze the place of Europe in the identity politics of the Republic of Karelia. The theoretical base for this research is constructivist approach to investigating political communities. Politics of regional identity is understood as activities of political elites, aimed at constructing the image of a “we-community” within the administrative borders of the region. The European Union is examined as a “Significant Other” based on comparison with which, the formation of Karelian identity takes place. The article emphasizes that on the level of discourse Karelia is perceived as an intangible part of Europe, because it shares the same common European values. At the same time the appeal to Europe while carrying out identity politics has a utilitarian character and is largely aimed at attracting additional resources. © Petrozavodsk State University |
Is passed for the press: 20 december 2013 year |