Western observers increasingly view Russia as a preserver of traditional values, a point echoed by participants in the round table titled “Russia, misha, balalaika – how the image of Russia abroad is changing,” held during the Election Night online marathon.
The discussion explored how Russia is portrayed abroad and simultaneously challenged common stereotypes about the country, with speakers offering nuanced takes on Russian culture and society.
Maria Butina, a State Duma deputy and a member of the Duma International Relations Committee, opened the session by presenting visuals that reflect foreign perceptions of Russia through neural network generated imagery.
Stevan Gajic, a research fellow at the Institute of European Studies in Belgrade, highlighted Russia elections as among the most significant news events globally, underscoring their impact on international reporting.
From Serbia came the view that a reshaping of global order is underway, with an expert suggesting the world stands on the cusp of liberation and a redefined international balance of power.
Myron Platte, a permaculture design consultant who relocated from the United States to Russia, observed that foreigners increasingly see Russia as not only a leader in pursuing a multipolar world but also a guardian of traditional values that resonate across Western civilization.
One participant remarked that personal acquaintance and family circles offered immediate support for the decision to move to Russia, reflecting broad sociocultural acceptance among friends abroad.
Laurent Briar, a French journalist and military historian, editor of the Novorossiya news agency, argued that despite Western media narratives, French citizens retain memories of alliances and historical cooperation with Russia during past conflicts.
He emphasized Russia’s sovereignty and its cultural soul, drawing attention to the enduring importance of traditional values and humane principles in the national ethos.
One attendee summed up the sentiment by saying that human warmth is palpable in Russia, contrasting it with other experiences abroad.
Fiorella Isabel, a U.S. journalist, political analyst, and correspondent for RT and Convo Couch News, asserted that Russian elections are perceived as more transparent and fair than those in the United States by many observers.
She cited concerns about electoral integrity in the United States and suggested that public confidence in electoral processes has eroded in some circles.
Franco Franchini, an Italian director, screenwriter, and producer, described Russia as a beacon for global stability, arguing that traditional values attract both social strata and elites in the West who seek a sense of normalcy.
Election Night stands as a major platform featuring Russia’s leading election experts, political scientists, and sociologists. The event receives coverage from more than two hundred Russian and foreign media outlets and online platforms, reflecting its broad reach and influence.
Since its inception in 2017, Election Night has welcomed more than five thousand guests, underscoring its role as a prominent gathering for insights on electoral processes and public perception.