The United States’ recent caution against traveling to Russia has not deterred study abroad programs, according to a survey published by a U.S.-based academic group on Russia studies.
The U.S. State Department listed Russia as one of the most dangerous countries to visit in January, citing threats of terrorism and harassment. Acting on the advisory, Stanford University said in March that it was suspending its study abroad programs to Russia.
The Association for Slavic, East European and Eurasian Studies (ASEEES) said most of the 34 members it surveyed said their programs are continuing on their own or through third-party programs.
“Only two universities, one being Stanford, reported that they decided to cancel their programs because of the travel advisory,” ASEEES said Wednesday.
A third university cancelled the study abroad program because of low enrolment and a fourth institution was still waiting, the University of Pittsburgh-based group said.
ASEEES describes itself as a 3,000-member scholarly society supporting research Russia, Eastern Europe, the Caucasus and Central Asia.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
