Experts discuss stereotypes about Chechens

Russian presidential assistant Aslambek Aslakhanov, academician Zulay Khamidova, Doctor of History Yavus Akhmadov and Vice Editor-in-Chief of Noviye Izvestia Sayid Bitsoyev have discussed stereotypes about Chechnya and negative myths about its people.

Bitsoyev said that only 2000 crimes had taken place over the course of a year in Chechnya, which was one of the lowest crime rates in Russia. He compared the attitude towards the Chechens with Jews who are often blamed for actions of just a few of their individuals.

Akhmadov pointed out that social issues are often perceived through the aspect of ethnic peculiarity. Interethnic disputes on the Internet prove the point. He reminded that the Chechens viewed themselves as Russians and did not want separation.

Aslakhanov noted that Caucasians were being pushed out of police services. Even Caucasians with red diplomas were unwelcome, he said. The expert believes that mass media and the cinema were playing a negative role in the process and assumes that Rasul Mirzayev would not become an outcast if he were a Russian. Aslakhanov added that little attention was paid to Caucasian youth and unemployment was still a problem.

Khamidov reminded about the problem of communication between young people. Their upbringing should start in a positive manner, she insists.