This spring, the Davis Center, the Ukrainian Research Institute at Harvard (HURI), and the Kyiv School of Economics are collaborating on an online series, "Kyiv Connection: Disciplinary Dialogues on Ukraine." The series will feature compelling and contemporary conversations across various disciplines, all from a Ukrainian perspective. Each session will feature a Ukrainian scholar in dialogue with an international counterpart, offering diverse viewpoints and rich insights.
This third discussion, "The Strategic Use of Violence Against Civilians," will feature Ivan Gomza, professor of Political Science at the Kyiv School of Economics, in conversation with Eugene Finkel, the Kenneth H. Keller Professor of International Affairs at Johns Hopkins University.
Three years ago, Russian soldiers had massacred civilians in Bucha, a Kyiv suburb they occupied in February 2022. Eugene Finkel and Ivan Gomza will discuss how the strategic use of violence against civilians can be squared with Russian rhetoric about Slavic brotherhood, historical unity, and liberation. They will also explore features of the Russian army that are put forth to explain the violence, from its social composition to operational features and a “metropole-colony” mindset.
Sponsorship
Co-sponsored by the Ukrainian Research Institute at Harvard University and Kyiv School of Economics.
Accessibility
The Davis Center for Russian and Eurasian Studies at Harvard University encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact us at 617-495-4037 or daviscenter@fas.harvard.edu in advance of your participation or visit. Requests for Sign Language interpreters and/or CART providers should be made at least two weeks in advance if possible. Please note that the Davis Center will make every effort to secure services but that services are subject to availability.
