The Meskhetian/Ahiska Turks and Other Unrecognized Minorities in Russia's War
Overview
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2024 marks three major commemorations for the Meskhetian/Ahiska Turks. It has been 80 years since they were deported from Southern Georgia by Joseph Stalin; 35 years since their forced expulsion from Uzbekistan; and 20 years since international cooperation gave them a new home in the United States. For the Meskhetian/Ahiska Turks that have remained in Russia, however, like many other minority groups, Russia’s war against Ukraine has once again brought uncertainty into their lives.
This panel discussion will feature former Title VIII Summer Research Scholar Richard Arnold, human rights lawyer Steven Swerdlow, and expert on Russian national minorities Maria Vyushkova. They will discuss the history of the Meskhetian/Ahiska Turks, the diplomacy that led to their resettlement in the United States, and the ways in which Russia’s war in Ukraine is impacting minority groups in Russia.
Speakers
Richard Arnold
Associate Professor of Political Science, Muskingum University
Steve Swerdlow
Mariya Vyushkova
Hosted By
Kennan Institute
The Kennan Institute is the premier US center for advanced research on Eurasia and the oldest and largest regional program at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. The Kennan Institute is committed to improving American understanding of Russia, Ukraine, Central Asia, the South Caucasus, and the surrounding region though research and exchange. Read more