Project 1: Pravda: Historical Narratives in Disinformation (Dr. Tetiana Klynina)

Problem Statement: Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine did not begin on February 24, 2022. It began with the annexation of Crimean peninsula and the initiation of War in Donbas in 2014. The latter events, just like the current invasion, were accompanied by a stream of anti-Ukrainian propaganda, emanating from Russian government officials, state TV, various news outlets, social media, etc. The Russian government used all possible means to justify their actions against Ukraine. Weaponization of history was the most effective instrument in the Russian disinformation toolbox. How and why did the Russian state decide to adopt such measures against Ukraine? What were the major milestones of such weaponization of history? Was (and is) Russian historical disinformation strategy effective? To what extent are Russia’s historical narratives true or false? What are other examples of weaponization of history? What were their implications?

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Project 2: #BoycottBiz Public Pressure Against Companies Operating in Russia (Dr. Volodymyr Kulikov)

Problem Statement: Multinational corporations (MNCs) running businesses in Russia faced challenges rarely dealt with at business schools. They face ethical dilemmas and feel strong pressure from their shareholders and stakeholders, forcing them to make decisions that go well beyond usual business thinking and strategizing. Thousands of companies have decided to divest, withdraw, or scale down their operations in Russia. In contrast, others justify their decision to stay with their responsibility towards their employees in Russia and their unwillingness to deprive Russia’s population of essential goods such as food and medical supplies. How and why can some companies benefit from war while others suffer disruption and destruction in their production and distribution networks? How does public pressure affect corporate behavior and reputation? What does (business) history teach us about ethical behavior in times of war?

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