Научный диалог (Mar 2020)
Evolution of the Conceptual Foundations of Russian Scientific Diplomacy 1996-2016
Abstract
The process of changing the conceptual foundations of Russian scientific diplomacy as an instrument of foreign policy and one of the forms of international scientific and technical cooperation over a twenty-year time span, the chronological boundaries of which are determined by the adoption of key strategic documents in this area, is examined. Based on the analysis of the regulatory framework, a sample of doctrinal sources related to the international aspects of the state scientific policy has been compiled. Through their analysis and parallel comparison with the Foreign Policy Concepts of the Russian Federation of 1993, 2000, 2008, 2013 and 2016, key transformations of the perception and vision of scientific diplomacy by decision-makers in the field are identified. Based on the results of the systematization of guidelines and value orientations reflected in the relevant political and determining documents, the periodization of the formation of scientific diplomacy was carried out with the identification of two stages. The first (1996 - mid-2000s) is characterized by a transition from a liberal paradigm to a realistic one, a certain politicization, and national interests at the forefront. The second stage (mid-2000s - 2016) is characterized by a reorientation to the economic dimension of international scientific and technical cooperation with a clear formation of scientific diplomacy as a concept in its modern form. It is shown that this evolution proceeded relatively smoothly in line with the objective changes in the international situation, Russia's position on the world stage, as well as adjustments to its foreign policy. Along with this, the role of E. M. Primakov as one of the ideological founders of modern Russian scientific diplomacy was identified and outlined.
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