Protection of Russia's National Interests in the International Arena by Political Parties

Abstract

Introduction. The article substantiates the relevance of the study of the protection of Russia's national interests in the international arena by political parties, formulates the goals and objectives of the work, and points out the main formal and logical contradiction between parties and national interests. Research methods. The methodology of studying the protection of Russia's national interests in the international arena by political parties is based on historical and retrospective approaches that allow us to see not only the logic of modern parties' actions in the international arena, but also to understand the reasons for their actions. A comparative analysis of the actions of political parties at the global level allows us to reveal what is special and common in their activities, as well as to generalize about the importance of political parties as social actors. Discussion. Of the diverse fields of activity of political parties in international affairs, the research focuses on five aspects. First, the evolution of the formation of national interest in post-Soviet Russia is revealed, and the most important factors of party participation in protecting the interests of social groups and the Russian people as a whole are identified. Secondly, the independence or subjectivity of political parties in international affairs is revealed, and arguments about the interdependence of the state as the main element of the political system and parties are built. Thirdly, the historical experience of interaction between political parties of different states is summarized and the conclusion is drawn that the productive activity of parties can only be if national interests are protected. Fourth, the Special Military Operation was an event for political parties when most of them recognized national interests as a priority over party goals. Fifth, Russia's political parties already have experience of acting as a «soft power» at the international level, but the potential opportunities in this area have not yet been fully exploited. Conclusion. It is concluded that political parties, when expressing the interests of their electoral groups, should not conflict with the national interests of Russian society as a whole. By participating in integration processes at the international level, parties should not forget about Russia's national interests.