Soft power policy as a resource of Russian influence in the East Mediterranean region (2019-2024)

the article is focused on the analysis of the activity of governmental and non-governmental actors realizing the goals of the humanitarian policy of the Russian Federation in the Eastern Mediterranean region. The author points out the difference between the term «soft power», established in the Western scientific discourse, and the concept of «humanitarian cooperation» used in Russia and post-Soviet countries. The article provides a comprehensive review of Russian government agencies, foundations and non-governmental organizations involved in humanitarian missions in Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Israel and Egypt, as well as their projects aimed at consolidating the position of Russian cultural, educational and political influence. The conclusion is made about the increased intensity of the Russian Federation's activities to increase humanitarian influence in the Eastern Mediterranean in the period from 2020 to 2024.

Eastern Mediterranean, humanitarian policy, soft power, public diplomacy, international development, Russian Peace, Rossotrudnichestvo, Russian House, volunteering, the Russian language, cultural initiatives, education, compatriots, NSOs, youth, preservation of historical heritage, rights of the Russian-speaking population