College Director: Narvans Have Skewed Vision of Russia
The University of Tartu's Narva College director, Katri Raik, said local Narvans do not know much about contemporary Russia and rely on "propaganda" seen on TV as their primary source of information. But the younger generation is often more understanding of the Estonian perspective on history, she added.
Although Raik considers Estonians and Russians to be "very similar" in terms of national character, she told ETV their relationships are a challenge even at Narva College, where a new building has just opened.
“Much of their Russian experience is limited to visiting the neighboring town Ivangorod - not a good representation of Russia,” said Raik on ETV. According to her, Estonian Russians are partly too influenced by the Russian media. Different generations of Russians have varying attitudes toward Estonia.
“The younger generations show more interest in the Estonian language and have more tolerance. They may continue to celebrate May 9 and WWII events, but are ready to move on. However, there is still too much skepticism toward the state and government,” said Raik.
Raik says she is worried that all Narvans are skeptical regarding the city government and have no authorities to view as a good example.