Extremists Against Extremism: The New Voice of the Russian Diaspora in Europe

On October 23, a panel discussion titled "Russian-Speaking Civil Society in Europe: Extremists Fighting against Extremism?" took place in Helsinki.

The event was organized by the Finland–Russia Society in cooperation with Initiative FoReDi ry as part of the annual Aleksanteri Conference, dedicated to the theme “Extremisms: ambiguities, ideologies, agency.”

The discussion focused on the different meanings and uses of the term “extremism” in Russia and Europe. Participants noted that in the Russian context, the word has become an instrument of political repression and persecution of dissent, whereas in the European context, it is primarily associated with preventing violence and protecting democratic institutions.

A separate part of the panel was devoted to the Russian authorities’ practice of labeling individuals and organizations as “foreign agents,” “extremists,” or “undesirable organizations.” All speakers had personal or organizational experience with these designations and discussed how such labels affect their activities, connections, and reputations — both in Russia and across Europe.

Events like this help bridge the gap between academia and civil society, creating a space for open dialogue and mutual exchange of experience.