战略与国际研究中心-Russia-and-Eurasia-Program-Monthly-Update,-August_1页_174kb

August-September 2007 Summary

Core Content

The August-September 2007 update provides an overview of key events, commentary, publications, and media appearances related to the program's activities and engagement with Russian politics and international affairs. It highlights the participation of program leaders in high-profile discussions, the release of significant reports and articles, and media coverage that reflects the program's influence and expertise in the field.

Main Events

• Valdai International Discussion Club (September 10-14):
  Director and Senior Fellow Andrew Kuchins attended the Valdai International Discussion Club, held in Kazan, Moscow, and Sochi, Russia. The event brought together approximately 70 experts from various countries, including Russia, the U.S., Europe, China, and Japan.
  • Kuchins met with high-ranking Russian officials, including President Vladimir Putin and First Deputy Prime Minister Sergei Ivanov.
  • The theme of the meeting was religion and identity in Russia, although discussions also covered recent Russian political developments.

Recent Commentary

• Cory Welt's Commentary:
  On August 27, Cory Welt authored a commentary titled "Russia and Georgia: The Message Behind the Missile?", which was published online. The piece likely analyzed the geopolitical implications of military actions or tensions between Russia and Georgia during this period.

Publications

• "What is Putin's Plan?" by Andrew Kuchins:
  Published on September 28 in the Washington Post under the column "Think Tank Town," this article explores potential strategies or future directions of Putin's leadership.

• "49 Steps To Improve Human Rights and Security in the North Caucasus":
  Released on September 18, this report was jointly published by the CSIS Human Rights and Security Initiative and the Robert Bosch Stiftung. It is available in English, Russian, and French, indicating its international relevance and accessibility.

• Op-ed on Russian Youth by Sarah Mendelson and Ted Gerber:
  Published on August 3 in the Washington Post, this op-ed addresses issues related to Russian youth, possibly focusing on their role in society, political engagement, or challenges they face.

• Book Review by Andrew Kuchins:

  • On August 29, Kuchins reviewed Robert Kagan's "Dangerous Nation" in The National Interest Online.
  • He also published a Russian version of the review in the May-June edition of Pro et Contra, available online.

Media Appearances

• BBC Radio (September 19):
  Senior Fellow Sarah E. Mendelson was featured to discuss the "49 Steps to Improve Human Rights and Security in the North Caucasus" report. This appearance underscores the program's engagement with media and public discourse on human rights and security issues in Russia.

• Moscow Times (September 17):
  Andrew Kuchins was quoted in an article titled "Putin Talks of 5 Possible Successors," which likely discusses the potential leadership transition in Russia following Putin's tenure.

• Wall Street Journal (September 12):
  Sarah E. Mendelson was quoted in the article "Looking Post-Putin," which may explore the implications of a post-Putin Russia and its future political direction.

• Nezavisimaya Gazeta (September 13):
  Andrew Kuchins was featured in an article titled "Valdai in Sochi," which likely covers the discussions and outcomes of the Valdai International Discussion Club.

• Bloomberg (August 16):
  Andrew Kuchins was quoted in an article titled "Ahmadinejad Denounces U.S. Missile Shield as Threat," which probably discusses the political and strategic implications of Iran's leader Ahmadinejad's comments on U.S. military policies.

Key Information

• The program's engagement with Russian politics and international affairs was marked by high-level participation in discussions and events.
• Andrew Kuchins and Sarah E. Mendelson were central figures in these activities, contributing both through written commentary and media appearances.
• The program produced significant publications, including a detailed report on the North Caucasus and book reviews, which reflect its research and analytical capabilities.
• The Valdai International Discussion Club remains a key platform for discussing Russia's internal and external policies, with a particular focus on identity and religion this year.
• The program's work was widely covered by international media, including the BBC, Moscow Times, Wall Street Journal, and Bloomberg, highlighting its relevance and influence in global discussions on Russia.

Conclusion

The August-September 2007 update demonstrates the program's active role in shaping and contributing to the discourse on Russian politics, human rights, and international relations. Through events, publications, and media engagement, the program continues to provide valuable insights and analysis on critical issues affecting Russia and its relations with the world.