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Abstract:

This paper analyzes the perceived legitimacy of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) among the public in its member states. The EAEU has garnered considerable academic attention over the last decade. However, a gap exists in the literature regarding one crucial aspect of the EAEU: its (perceived) legitimacy. Grounded in the theoretical premise that legitimacy influences member states’ responses to international organizations, this study aims to fill this gap by analyzing the perceived legitimacy of the EAEU within Armenia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. In doing so, the paper, firstly, scrutinizes the EAEU from the non-Russian perspective. Secondly, it shifts the focus away from high-profile decision-makers to ordinary people while discussing the EAEU. Finally, the paper explores the impact of recent geopolitical developments on attitudes toward Russia-led organizations. To address this issue, we conducted focus group discussions with representatives of the general public in three countries. Preliminary findings indicate a notably low level of legitimacy attributed to the EAEU among these populations, yet, its degree varies among the three countries. This observed deficiency in legitimacy and the concurrent growth of negative attitudes may further complicate the already challenging dynamics within the EAEU.