Stereotyping of the crimean tatar people’s image as a problem of interethnic communication in ukrainian society

Abstract

With the transition of the Turkic-speaking peoples to a settled way of life in the eastern steppes of Europe, stereotypes were increasingly established in European public opinion, which determined the stereotyped and often unfair perception of the “steppe” peoples, including the Crimean Tatars, several centuries earlier. This problem is especially relevant for Ukraine, whose territory has become a place where different civilizations, cultures and religions collide. Considering this, an important task at the present stage is to overcome worldviews and prejudices that complicate the process of interethnic communication and the establishment of a dialogue of cultures. The proposed article examines the main features of the process of stereotyping the image of the Crimean Tatar people as a factor influencing interethnic communication in Ukraine. On the example of folklore and classic literature, as traditional relayers of the public consciousness of Ukrainians, the main negative markers-pronouns that were used to designate the Crimean Tatar people were determined. The main reasons that contribute to the stereotyping of the Crimean Tatar people’s image and hinder the development of efficient communication practices have been clarified. In this context, special attention is paid to the study of the historical and religious factors’ role. The nature of social interaction and conflict-genicity between Crimean Tatars and pro-Russian forces in the Crimea before the occupation is outlined. The impact of modern political events on the change in the image of the Crimean Tatar people is determined. The main measures that were implemented in order to overcome prejudices against the Crimean Tatars and to establish efficient and positive interethnic communication inside the Ukrainian society are outlined.