In Russia, the year 2026 has been declared the Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia

According to the decree, the year 2026 will be declared the Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia. On the vast territory of the Russian Federation, which covers more than 17 million square kilometers, representatives of over 190 different ethnic groups reside. The Presidential Library portal offers a unique collection titled "The Russian People," where one can find photographs, film chronicles, archival documents, and periodicals that detail the diversity of the concept of "the Russian people."

Researchers noted the vast expanses of the Russian Empire as early as the 19th century. In the publication "Guide to the Study of Russian Land and Its Population" (1867), it is noted: "Looking at the map of Russia, one can understand how great this state is! It stretches so wide that it conducts affairs with many different peoples."

This source also mentions the diversity of peoples: "In our kingdom live peoples of different tribes: Poles, Belarusians, Little Russians, Great Russians, Germans, Swedes, Finns, Georgians, Armenians, Tatars, Circassians, Persians, and mixed tribes in Siberia and America! Even in a lifetime, one cannot learn all the languages of their compatriots!"

The Presidential Library portal features the collection "Cultural Heritage of the Peoples of Russia" (https://www.prlib.ru/collections/1353973), dedicated to the unique historical and cultural heritage. In the section "Culinary Traditions of the Peoples of Russia," one can explore recipes for preparing "National Dishes of the Khakass." The 1884 publication offers sweet lovers a variety of recipes for syrups, jams, and pastes, as well as gingerbreads and refreshing drinks made from fruits and berries.

In the section "Collection of S. M. Prokudin-Gorsky from the Collections of the Library of Congress" (https://www.prlib.ru/section/685568), the photographic works of Sergei Prokudin-Gorsky (1863–1944), the author of the first color photographs in Russia, are presented. These images represent a unique historical and cultural value, allowing one to see color Russia at the beginning of the 20th century.

All the peoples inhabiting various regions of Russia are united by common traditions and values. The state guarantees the protection of the rights and freedoms of every citizen, regardless of their national affiliation or religion. This is evidenced by the materials of the collection "Family and Traditional Family Values in Russia as the Foundation of Russian Statehood."