Social Capital in Russia in the Period of Turbulence

This paper presents the results of a survey on social capital in Russia, conducted from December 2023 to January 2024. It represents the second round of research, following an initial survey conducted in early 2022. The survey fs methodology for this round mirrors that of the first, with 1,600 individuals from across Russia surveyed on their perceptions of social networks, levels of trust, civic engagement, and evaluations of government policies. Conducted nearly two years after the start of the military conflict with Ukraine and the imposition of economic sanctions by Western countries, this paper aims to assess how social capital has evolved during this turbulent period. The findings indicate that Russian social capital has remained relatively stable. Key characteristics include low generalized trust, high particularized trust, strong networks among family, relatives, and close friends, as well as mutual support within these networks. There is also notable trust in the President and the military. However, slight shifts are observable, such as efforts of some respondents to form new social ties and networks and emerging social division, particularly pronounced in generational differences in attitudes toward Russia fs government policies on Ukraine.