Davit Mikeladze

Russian-speaking Population in the Baltic States: Russian-speaking Population in the Baltic States: a "Fifth Column" or an Integral Part of the Local Society? Davit Mikeladze

The problematic relation between the titular nations (majority) and Russian-Speaking Population (minority) in the Baltic Republics is related with historical experience and also with the construction of the image of a "national enemy" among a certain number of the native populations. Are Russian-speakers a "fifth column", or are they an integral part of the local societies in the Baltic States? This empirical study uses the methods of process tracing, analytical narrative, discourse analysis, and interviews to answer this question. It also argues that (1) historical experience was decisive while elaborating the ethnic and citizenship policies of the newly-restored independent states; (2) centralization and "nationalization" of state powers were caused by the threat of potential external sponsorship of ethnic cleavages, and foreign influence on domestic and international affairs; and (3) accession to NATO and the EU became a strong facilitating factor for more inclusive citizenship legislation and integration of the entire Baltic society, including both titular and non-titular populations.