Russia’s Reluctance to Recognize the Adyghe (Circassians) as Indigenous to the Krasnodar Territory
Adel Bashqawi
November 10, 2025
Since the abhorrent occupation and illegal annexation of Circassia in the 19th century, the Circassian homeland and its remaining inhabitants have been victims of the Russian state and its successive regimes. The racists and despots at the top of the power structure have never concealed their intentions or policies, which can only be described as reckless, irresponsible, and extremist.
It is well known that the Adyghe people—of whom only a small portion remain in their ancestral homeland—are now scattered across various Russian administrative regions. Once numbering in the hundreds of thousands in their native territory, they have been reduced to a marginalized minority. The Krasnodar administrative center, representing the local Russian authority, has refused to recognize the Adyghe as an indigenous people. This refusal reflects a pattern of premeditated policies and conspiracies aimed at erasing Circassian identity.
“Most of the cities and rivers along the Black Sea coast of the Krasnodar Territory have Adyghe names. The Adyghe have lived here since time immemorial. Until now, the Krasnodar Territory Administration has not recognized my people as indigenous. This means a great deal to my people and to the history of our ancestors.
We ask for nothing more than recognition of this fact. If this happens, my people will be able to calmly turn the page of history and move forward with gratitude. My people love their country and defend its honor—both in sports and in the military. So let our great country meet my people halfway and recognize this truth, for justice must prevail.” [1]
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