Next Generation Human Rights Activists and Social Marketing in Russia

About this grant

A recent survey conducted by the Center for Strategic & International Studies reveals that one-third of the Russian population supports democracy, one-third supports authoritarian rule and one-third is unsure. A major reason that younger Russians accept authoritarian values may be that they have not been exposed to an open examination of the history and reality of Stalinism. Through its project, Next Generation Human Rights Activists and Social Marketing in Russia, the center will promote a greater awareness of the past and its consequences and stimulate young citizens to support and advance a system of checks and balances.Multiyear funding will enable the center to work with a leading Russian human rights organization to implement a public awareness campaign in three regions of Russia. Activities will include conducting a small workshop with Soviet history experts to develop scripts for various focus groups; writing and commissioning a national survey on how young Russians feel about democracy versus authoritarianism; provide systematic training to young leaders on management and strategic communication; and organize public awareness campaigns in up to six regions.The center is a nonprofit, public-policy research organization based in Washington, D.C