Evolution of the “National Security” Concept in Three Editions of the National Security Strategy of the Russian Federation

Introduction . The relevance of the research on the “national security” concept is induced primarily by geopolitical changes taking place in the world in the contemporary period of history. Heads of the states have to adequately respond to the events happening around, such as military conflicts, anthropogenic and environmental disasters, terrorist attacks, challenges caused by the development of new information technologies. Therefore, studying the interpretations of the “national security” concept in different editions of the National Security Strategy of the Russian Federation through the prism of historical development and modern attitudes, taking into account external and internal threats, is expedient. The research is aimed at investigating and analysing the evolution of the “national security” concept in the National Security Strategy of the Russian Federation in the changing world settings. Materials and Methods . The object of the study is the “national security” concept as a complicated and multifaceted notion used in the National Security Strategy of the Russian Federation (in 2009, 2015 and 2021 editions). The dialectical method has been used as the main method of cognition, additionally, the general scientific methods of analysis and synthesis, comparative and dogmatic legal methods were used. Results . Evolution of the “national security” concept in three editions of the National Security Strategy of the Russian Federation has been analysed and modern interpretation of the concept has been provided. The dynamic nature of social relationships that determines the need for constant reinterpretation and adaptation of this concept to the changing realities has been studied. Dependence of the changes in the essence of the “national security” concept on the internal and external challenges and threats faced by the state at the certain period of historical development has been substantiated. This is reflected in the regulatory legal documents stipulating the basic principles and priorities of the state policy on ensuring the security of the country. Discussion and Conclusion . The conclusions drawn as a result of the study should complement and expand the scientific understanding of the essential characteristics of the “national security” concept stipulated in the National Security Strategy of the Russian Federation, as well as of the measures designated to improve the legal support of the national security in the contemporary geopolitical realities. Moreover, the research results can serve a basis for further scientific hypotheses and research in this area.