Vladimir Rogov: Sovereignty is the foundation of Russia's existence
Amid unprecedented external pressure, Russia has fully proven itself as a sovereign state capable of independently shaping both its foreign and domestic policy. How can all elements of sovereignty be effectively integrated into a single system of national development? This question was at the heart of the session "The Image of Victory", held on 31 October as part of the "Community" forum of the Civic Chamber of the Russian Federation at the National Centre RUSSIA.
"Sovereignty is the foundation of Russia's existence — it is freedom, and this freedom must be used wisely," said Chairman of the Civic Chamber Commission on Sovereignty, Patriotic Projects and Veterans' Support Vladimir Rogov. He also stressed the importance of preserving Russia's cultural and historical sovereignty, referring to the legacy of Russian philosopher Nikolai Danilevsky.
"A hundred and fifty years ago, Danilevsky showed that humanity develops through cultural and historical types. Each civilisation has its own path and logic of development, and there is no single endpoint to which all nations must move according to the alien template of the collective West," said Vladimir Rogov.
The cultural dimension of sovereignty was explored by Deputy Chairman of the Civic Chamber Commission on Culture and Preservation of Spiritual Heritage, renowned violinist Pyotr Lundstrem. He recalled how works such as "The Sacred War" and Dmitri Shostakovich's Seventh Symphony became enduring symbols of the Soviet people's unbreakable spirit during the Great Patriotic War.
"Today, the main question is what culture can offer for our future. Its role during wartime is crucial, but even more important is its role afterwards. What is our image of the future? What do we want? What can we offer our country? I am deeply convinced that we must start asking ourselves these questions right now," emphasised Pyotr Lundstrem.
The "Community" forum, marking the 20th anniversary of the Civic Chamber of the Russian Federation, is held at the National Centre RUSSIA from 31 October to 1 November. It brings together more than 5,000 experts, government officials, and representatives of public organisations.
