Publication

This issue of the Russian Analytical Digest examines Russian public relations activities and soft power. First, Andis Kudors assesses Moscow’s relations with Russian compatriots residing abroad as a way of exerting soft power over neighboring countries. Particular attention is given to the role of the Russian Orthodox Church and Russian television as a vehicle for spreading influence. Second, Robert W Orttung examines Russia’s use of public relations as a foreign policy tool. Examples include the global RT (formerly Russia Today) television network, Vladimir Putin’s use of PR in Russian domestic politics and Gazprom’s international PR campaigns.