Mission Statement

RUTA promotes and supports Central, South-Eastern, Eastern Europe, Baltic, Caucasus, Central and Northern Asia Studies. It centers and builds on the knowledges, scholarly traditions and expertise of scholars, artists and social justice advocates in the region(s).

The Association grows from epistemic communities and solidarity networks formed in response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. RUTA fosters awareness and engagement with concerns of diversity, equity and justice in academia and research.

The Association strives to lead and amplify debates on issues concerning the region(s), making them accessible to local scholars and strengthening their connections with academics and institutions globally. RUTA promotes critical research on ongoing imperial and colonial legacies that have shaped the region(s), relying on the expertise and experiences of affected societies and stimulating social responsibility.

The Association will contribute to debates leading to epistemic and cultural reparations and restitution.