The ideological foundation of the International Catherine Forums was laid by the immigration manifestos of Catherine II, primarily the Manifesto of 22 July 1763, “On the Invitation of Foreigners to Russia”. These documents established a state migration policy model in the 18th century that was unique in its scale and philosophy, based on openness, trust, and constructive development.
The Empress Catherine II, who ascended to the throne in 1762, sought to develop Russia as a strong and enlightened state, capable not only of defending its borders but also of creating conditions for internal economic growth. The 1763 Manifesto invited to the country craftsmen, farmers, engineers, doctors, and entrepreneurs – all who were ready to labour for the benefit of their new Motherland. Foreigners were guaranteed freedom of religion, tax and property benefits, and land allotments.
The result of this state initiative was the relocation of tens of thousands of families from German states, Switzerland, France, and other European countries. The first German colonies emerged in the south of Russia, the Volga region, the Urals, and the Black Sea region, making a significant contribution to the development of agriculture, crafts, industry, science, and education. The settlers not only brought new technologies and farming methods but also contributed to the formation of a distinct work ethic based on discipline, responsibility, and mutual aid.
It was during this period that a new ethnic group emerged – the Russian Germans, who became an integral part of Russia’s multinational people. Their history serves as an example of how integration, based on mutual respect and shared values, can enrich a country and strengthen its cultural diversity.
The ideas laid down by Catherine II over two and a half centuries ago remain relevant today. They are reflected in Russia’s contemporary humanitarian policy, which is aimed at supporting people who share traditional spiritual and moral values and at strengthening social solidarity. It is this continuity that has formed the conceptual foundation of the International Catherine Forums – forums of invitation, where historical heritage is understood as a living guide for the present.
A member of the Presidential Council for Interethnic Relations and President of the Federal National-Cultural Autonomy of Russian Germans, Konstantin Matis, noted:
“Catherine II set a unique civilisational vector – Russia is open to those who are ready to live, work, and build within it. Thanks to her manifestos, thousands of people came to our country who became not guests, but citizens – they contributed their labour, culture, and spirit to the common cause of Russia’s development. Today, as the world once again searches for points of stability, the ideas she instilled – trust, cooperation, and respect for tradition – sound remarkably contemporary”.
The International Catherine Forums are developing this historical experience, turning it into a basis for the modern agenda of humanitarian integration and people-to-people diplomacy. The 2025 Forum, which will be held on 20 December in Moscow, will be the next step in conceptualising this line of continuity that connects the Age of Enlightenment with the present day – a time when Russia is once again reaching out to the world, preserving its values and offering a space for constructive development.