The Concept of the Foreign Policy of the Russian Federation (2023)

Approved: 31 March 2023

The Concept of the Foreign Policy of the Russian Federation, approved on March 31, 2023, is a strategic planning document that establishes the fundamental principles, strategic goals, and priority areas of Russia’s foreign policy. It reflects a significant shift in Russia’s perception of the international environment, particularly in response to what it terms the “hybrid war” unleashed by the West.

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Key Provisions

• Russia as a “Civilization-State”: The document defines Russia as a unique “state-civilization” with a mission to uphold global balance and ensure conditions for the peaceful development of humanity.

• A Multipolar World Order: The concept’s central goal is the formation of a “more equitable, multipolar world order.” It seeks to eliminate the “vestiges of domination by the United States and other unfriendly states in world affairs.”

• Anti-Western Stance: The document takes a highly confrontational stance towards the “collective West,” particularly the United States, which it identifies as the “main inspirer, organizer and executor of the aggressive anti-Russian policy.” It aims to “weaken and neutralize” this policy.

• Focus on the Global South: The concept places a strong emphasis on strengthening ties with China and India, which it describes as “friendly sovereign global centers of power.” It also prioritizes cooperation with the Islamic world, Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

• Use of Armed Forces: The concept states that the Russian Armed Forces can be used to “repel and prevent an armed attack on Russia and/or its allies,” “resolve crises,” and “protect the lives of Russian citizens abroad.”

• “Russophobia” and Traditional Values: The document introduces the concept of “Russophobia” as a state policy of unfriendly countries and positions Russia as a defender of “traditional spiritual and moral values.”

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The 2023 Foreign Policy Concept represents a significant hardening of Russia’s foreign policy. It moves away from the previous goal of “strategic partnership” with the West and instead frames the international environment as a struggle between a declining, aggressive West and an emerging, multipolar world order in which Russia plays a leading role.