Civic Activity of Modern Russian Cossacks: Basic Forms and Practices

Abstract

The article examines the main forms and practices of civic activity of modern Russian Cossacks. As a civil so-ciety institution, it interacts with the state in different spheres: economy, social and humanitarian sphere, as well as in the protection of the country from external threats and in the sphere of internal security. First of all, this refers to Registered Cossacks who fulfill the tasks of public service. Cossack civic initiative is especially power-ful at the local level, in rural areas and small towns, in regions where the corresponding identity is strong. Inter-action with the executive and legislative authorities of the regions, local authorities, law enforcement bodies, the system of education and culture contributes to the development of civic activity of the Registered Cossacks. Non-Registered Cossacks and independent Cossack activists are active in the information sphere by creating and maintaining information resources and pages in social networks, primarily dedicated to Cossack history and traditions. In the face of external challenges and threats, it is necessary that registered and non-registered Cossacks cooperate constructively and exert a consolidating influence on Russian society.