Russia’s Cultural Statecraft, 5 cr

During the course, Russia and Russia’s foreign policy are examined through the concept of cultural statecraft. The course discusses and analyzes how culture has been used to promote Russia's foreign policy interests and what kind of political dimension and potential culture has. The cases presented in the course focus on cultural activities that occurred outside Russia's national borders. The course is taught in English.

The course is based on the book ‘Russia's Cultural Statecraft’, published by Routledge in 2022. The themes of the lectures are mostly based on the book's chapters written by Russia experts.

After taking the course, the student can explain what is meant by the concept of cultural statecraft and apply the concept in their own research. The student can identify and analyze examples of cultural statecraft and elaborate on the examples' weaknesses and strengths.

The course enables the development of students' teamwork abilities as well as argumentation and critical thinking skills. The course also supports the competence to work independently (by writing a learning diary or essay).