Russia, unlike any other country in the world, boasts of a unique cultural heritage that’s largely shrouded in mystery, and often alien to foreigners. To traverse the complexities of Russian social practices and cultural norms, it’s essential to be aware of a few unwritten and unsaid rules—etiquettes that are deeply ingrained in the nation’s social fabric.
So if you’re curious to learn about the mysteries surrounding Russia’s cultural practices, then let’s explore them together.
Elders Hold Prominent Positions in Russian Society –
The elder people are highly respected in Russian society, and they hold a crucial position in social hierarchies. It’s typical for elders to offer their blessings (blessings hold highly significant value in Russian culture) to children before they leave for school or start an important ceremony. Showing respect to elders, addressing them as “Babushka” (Grandmother), “Dedushka” (grandfather), or “Batya” (father), and seeking their advice is a common practice. During formal gatherings, it’s also not uncommon to offer the elder seated at the table the first drink.
Importance of Personal Space –
Personal space holds great significance in Russian culture. Unlike other countries where people love to stand close, Russians value their personal space and prefer to keep a considerable distance while communicating. It’s a rude gesture to stand or sit too close to others as it’s regarded as an invasion of privacy. The appropriate distance to keep is an arm’s length or more between individuals.
Mandatory Dress Codes in Certain Locations –
Russian culture dictates that dressing appropriately to suit the occasion or situation is a must. For instance, Russian Orthodox churches require women to wear headscarves, while short skirts, revealing clothes, and bare shoulders are frowned upon. Meanwhile, some restaurants, especially in Moscow, require men to wear a suit and tie, and women to dress formally.
Gift-Giving Plays an Integral Role in Society –
Gift-giving is a time-honored tradition in Russia, and it’s considered an integral part of social life. While gifting, Russians place great emphasis on the act of presenting and receiving rather than the value of the gift. Gifts should be well-wrapped and accompanied by a bouquet of flowers or chocolate, apart from a greeting card. Typically, Russians bring a small gift like chocolates, flowers, or a bottle of wine to a dinner party.
In Closing –
Understanding Russian cultural norms requires taking into account various factors that are unique to this great nation. Elderly reverence, preserving personal space, appropriate dress code, and gift-giving traditions are a few practices that one would come across in day-to-day communication and social circles. Adhering to these practices and customs would help ease the tension of communication between foreigners and locals, and lead to more pleasant and memorable experiences.
