The “Russian world” (Russkiy mir) ideology has become one of the most relevant variables that must be assessed to understand the current shifts in cultural, religious, geopolitical, and legal discourses on contemporary Russia. It has profound implications in all these domains and, concerning the law, impacts the Russian legal system and its relationship with international law and human rights. This article first outlines the main elements of the “Russian world” ideology. It then explores how this ideology shapes a distinctive conception of Russian sovereignty, examining its implications for Russia’s relationships with other countries, and particularly the legality of its interventions in Ukraine in the context of the ongoing war. The discussion then turns to the interaction between the “Russian world” ideology and legal norms on freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, with particular attention to national security concerns. The following section assesses the broader impact of Russkiy mir on other human rights. The contribution concludes with some reflections on the significance of these findings.
Pasquale Annicchino (Mon,) studied this question.