Identity Politics in Russian Agglomerations: Krasnodar and Rostov-on-Don Cases

The article investigates identity politics within Russian agglomerations focusing on the largest urban centers in the Southern Federal District – Krasnodar and Rostov-on-Don. In light of the rapid urban environment, the diversity of cultural traditions, and contemporary challenges, research on identity politics in agglomeration spaces has gained significant relevance. The identity politics within these agglomeration is shaped by a sense of belonging to the territory, influenced by historical connections, sociocultural environment, and the surrounding landscape. The primary objectives of this study is to identify the characteristics of identity politics in the Krasnodar and Rostov agglomerations, and to examine the practices employed in formatting agglomeration identity. To gather empirical data, we monitored the official VKontakte pages of the politicians associated with the studied territory, analyzing their speeches that highlight significant events in the life of the agglomerations. Additionally, we conducted an analysis of citizen posts within VKontakte communities that address issues related to identity politics, utilizing big data technologies, specifically thematic modeling. Historically, the Krasnodar and Rostov agglomerations are characterized by their multinational composition; therefore, identity politics should aim to unify diverse identities and integrate them into a cohesive community based on principles of good neighborliness. The study highlights indicators of governmental interest in implementing a territorial identity politics within the examined agglomerations, while also identifying challenges that hinder the effective development of urban regions. One of the main factors hindering the development of agglomeration spaces appears to be the lack of specialized management bodies. Consequently, the agglomeration identity remains underdeveloped in both Krasnodar and Rostov, primarily due to the novelty of this phenomenon for both politicians and the public. 

Keywords: identity politics; territorial identity; agglomeration; Krasnodar; Rostov-on-Don; symbolic politics; big data