Identity policy in Republic of Karelia

The policy of identity adopted by the Republic of Karelia is analyzed. The policy of identity pursued by the regions is understood as actions of political elite aimed at shaping the “we-community” perception within administrative-territorial boundaries. Regions are defined as integral constituents of the national state. There are two distinguished types of regional identity normally adopted by the regions: exclusive one and inclusive one. The exclusive type of the policy of identity focuses on the region’s opposition to the national state. The inclusive type of the policy of identity involves consideration of the region as an integral part of the state. Analysis of the policy of identity introduced in the Republic of Karelia helped to distinguish several transformation stages of its development. An inclusive type of the policy of identity is adopted by the Republic of Karelia. The choice is conditioned by the low level of indigenous population, economic dependence upon the Federal centre, and polycentric regime.