Pavel Malkov on what unites all Russians in the project "What Does the Motherland Begin With?"

The Motherland begins with what is equally dear to everyone — family, native land, shared history and culture. According to the Governor of the Ryazan Region, Pavel Malkov, these values form the foundation that unites the people of this vast country. He shared his thoughts as part of the nationwide survey "What Does the Motherland Begin With?" organised by the National Centre RUSSIA.

"For me, as for a great many people in our country, the first association that comes to mind in response to this question is Mark Bernes' famous song, 'What Does the Motherland Begin With?'. For me, the Motherland begins with the people who live here, our land, our incredible history and remarkable culture. It begins with so many things that are close and familiar to everyone — they are what unites us. We share the same values, and this is our beloved Motherland," Pavel Malkov noted.

The National Centre RUSSIA is implementing the All-Russian project "What Does the Motherland Begin With?" with the support of the Government of the Russian Federation. The initiative aims to strengthen people's sense of unity with their country and preserve cultural diversity and shared values through dialogue between people of different generations, regions and ethnic backgrounds. The first stage has already been launched: a survey is now available on the National Centre RUSSIA website, allowing anyone to share what the Motherland means to them in writing or through a video message.

More than 700 people from 71 regions of Russia and other countries have already taken part in the survey. Most participants (64.2%) associate the Motherland with family. Other common responses include their family home, childhood, loved ones, well-being, defence of the Fatherland, culture and historical memory.

A new stage of the project will run from July to September: a series of meetings entitled "The Motherland Is Its People", where government representatives, opinion leaders and participants from the regions will discuss the role of individuals in the country's achievements. From September to October, the motivational meetings "The Motherland Is Service" will continue the initiative with outstanding representatives of various professions. From November to December, the heads of Russia's regions will discuss regional development, the preservation of traditions and the unity of the country's peoples as part of "The Motherland Is Home" series.

The National Centre RUSSIA invites everyone to take part in the survey and share their thoughts on what the Motherland begins with.Participants can tell their personal story of love for the Homeland on the project's official website.