Editor's Note R U S S I A & F S U

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At a time where Russia and the former Soviet Union region have been thrust back into the global spotlight, I am excited to present the contributions of the IRR’s Russia & FSU team to the school of political thought that surrounds this tumultuous part of the world. Within this edition’s overarching theme of power, few regions have more stories to tell than the former Soviet Union, where Soviet and Russian power have a long history of seeking to achieve political and economic dominance.

Thibaut's piece on the Crimean Tatars analyzes the past and present of a community that has stayed resolute in their fight to achieve self-determination through a history of deportation and struggles for basic human rights and recognition of personhood. Azima examines the role of language in Kazakhstan and the obstacles presented by the continued prevalence of the Russian language—a contentious point in the country's education and government sectors—which impacts the development of a strong national identity. Amy’s article, scholar-reviewed by Henry Foy of the Financial Times, looks toward the future, and the alarming possibility of increased arms trafficking following the inflow of weapons shipments to Ukraine and the lack of accountability and oversight in the process.

Throughout the publication process this semester, my writers and editors have worked tirelessly to meet deadlines, conduct research, and put forward their best work possible. I am extremely proud of all the hard work put in by everyone on my team, and beyond grateful to our Editor-in-Chief, Bridgette, and everyone at the IRR who worked on the design, layout, and launch of this semester’s issue, Perspectives on Power.

SEAN HRONCICH, CAS '24

Senior Editor, Russia and Former Soviet Union