Authors

Konstantin Branovitskiy¹;  ¹ Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg, Germany

Discussion

Since February 2022, collaborations between Russian scientific and educational organizations and their European counterparts have largely ceased. This abstract examines the causes, implications, and dynamics of these disruptions from the perspective of a Russian scientist affiliated with a European university.
Causes of Disruption
The suspension of collaboration is driven by two main factors:

1. State Control: Most Russian academic institutions are governed by the state, closely aligning with national agendas.
2. Support for State Actions: Many rectors publicly endorsed the "special military operation," complicating their international relationships.

External Barriers to Collaboration
These disruptions are compounded by logistical challenges:

1. Obstacles for Foreign Scholars: The SWIFT shutdown, flight bans, and strict visa requirements hinder foreign scholars' access to Russia.
2. Barriers for Russian Academics in Europe: Guidance discouraging collaboration and increased visa difficulties have reduced Russian participation in European projects.

Limited Continuation of Cooperation
Despite the cessation of formal collaboration, some informal engagements persist:

1. Ongoing Research Projects: Joint projects initiated before 2022 continue, often maintained through personal relationships.
2. End of Joint Educational Programs: Formal educational partnerships have ceased, though Russian students can enroll in European universities under standard protocols.

Shifts in Russian Academic Strategy
With limited access to Europe, Russian universities are pivoting toward Asia and the post-Soviet region:

Reorientation: Some collaborations with post-Soviet countries (e.g., Kazakhstan) have emerged, but new initiatives remain rare.

Decentralized Academic Engagement
Decisions about collaboration often occur at the institutional level rather than through unified national policy. For instance, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg has hosted conferences with Russian scholars, demonstrating institutional autonomy.

Conclusion
The suspension of formal cooperation and fragmented informal engagements highlight the fragility of Russian academia's global connections. As challenges evolve, the future of Russian academic integration remains uncertain.