The recently published research article by Dr Matilde Rosina analyses the European Union's migration policies following Russia's 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine, highlighting how changes in visa and refugee policies served not just practical purposes but also acted as strategic soft power tools.
Dr Rosina argues that by tightening visa restrictions for Russians, the EU aimed to delegitimise and isolate Russian Federation. Conversely, the adoption of temporary protection for Ukrainians underscored the EU's support for Ukraine and showcased its role as a champion of freedom and democracy. Analysing EU documents from the early days of the conflict, the article suggests that these policy adjustments helped craft a narrative of a belligerent, isolated Russia versus a principled, unified European Union.
Reported by:
Eliza Kania
eliza.kania@brunel.ac.uk