The Environmental in Security: Securitization Theory and Russian Environmental Security Policy

• Main Author: Lamazhapov, Erdem
• Format: Master Thesis
• Language: English
• Published: 2020
• Subjects: Copenhagen school; securitization theory; environmental security; desecuritization; Arctic
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10852/80059; http://urn.nb.no/URN:NBN:no-83176

Environmental security is one of the non-military aspects of security in international security studies, making it both misunderstood and mysterious in its ideational content. This thesis presents an application of the securitization theory in the context of securitization of the environment in Russia. Applying quantitative document stream and relative power methods and qualitative methods of discourse analysis, I draw upon a database of Russian legal and administrative documents from 1987 to 2019. Finding the core assumptions of the securitization theory correct, this thesis challenges it in regards to the possibility of distinction that security is an area beyond politics, whereas safety is a part of normal politics. Providing insight into the intentions and moves of key securitizing actors, as well as referent objects of security, this thesis concentrates on both international and domestic aspects of environmental securitization in Russia. Designed as an embedded mixed-methods case study, the thesis confirms its findings in subunit analysis of securitization of the environment by Russia during the NATO Operation Allied Force and in the Arctic. The thesis finds that it is difficult to characterize security as being beyond politics, as well as desecuritization in the Russian context is improbable. Concluding the discussion of securitization in the Russian context, the thesis reflects on the role of security and language in identity construction.