This research-based project addresses this gap by examining the central motifs in Russian state-controlled television narratives, with a particular focus on the use of the term “Nazi” and references to "Nazism" as propaganda tools. By analyzing developments from 2012 to 2024, the project investigates how historical memory is manipulated and intertwined with contemporary politics to reinforce state propaganda.
Cooperating partner
This project is developed in cooperation with the Babyn Yar Holocaust Memorial Center. Located in Kyiv, Ukraine, the center is committed to preserving the memory of the Babyn Yar massacre, as well as preserving the broader history of the Holocaust. The Center's work is based on a "Historical Narrative" approach, which stresses the importance of past historical events.
Main Goals
This research project aims to critically examine the use of the word “Nazi” and references to "Nazism" in narratives on Russian state TV channels. It seeks to analyze how these terms are utilized as propaganda tools, focusing on their frequency, framing, and the ways in which they are constructed, disseminated, and adapted to serve political objectives.
The specific objectives of this research project are:
- Investigating the usage patterns of terms such as “Nazi” and references to “Nazism” from 2012-2014 in Russian state-controlled television.
- Exploring how these narratives are employed to delegitimize political adversaries.
- Evaluating the role of these narratives in fostering nationalistic sentiments and reinforcing state control over public discourse.
- Analyzing the interplay between historical memory and contemporary political messaging in the context of Russian propaganda.