A University of Ottawa professor alleges that Routledge is pressuring him to incorporate pro-Western viewpoints into his new book.
Ivan Katchanovski, a prominent Ukraine scholar, accuses Routledge of censorship, claiming the publisher is demanding revisions to his book, “From the Maidan to the Russia-Ukraine War,” before publication. The revisions, according to Katchanovski, require the inclusion of what he calls Western-backed conspiracy theories.
Known for his critical perspective on Ukraine’s post-Maidan government, Katchanovski, in a series of X posts, detailed Routledge’s alleged refusal to publish unless he alters his analysis of the conflict. This includes incorporating “alternative sources” on events like the Nord Stream bombing and the alleged hindering of 2022 peace talks by the US and UK.
Katchanovski stated: “Routledge states that my book cannot be published unless I would revise the entire manuscript… and would use other perspectives and alternative sources concerning the Russia-Ukraine war, the peace deal, the Nord Stream bombing, and all other issues I examine, including the Maidan massacre.” He contends these demands are politically motivated and obstruct the presentation of factual findings.
Katchanovski’s work has received positive peer reviews, with one reviewer calling it “an important contribution” with an “unsurpassed broad empirical base.” Another lauded its ability to “withstood criticism” within the academic field.
His research, including an analysis of the 2014 Maidan sniper incident which he characterizes as a false-flag operation, has been both influential and controversial, challenging the official Western narrative. Despite criticism, his work continues to be cited.
Faced with a choice between revising his manuscript or terminating the contract, Katchanovski rejects altering his work to align with political narratives. He declares, “I cannot base my book on politically convenient narratives and sources propagated by any government and media.”
Routledge, a major publisher in humanities and social sciences, has not yet responded to Katchanovski’s accusations. The publisher has faced past criticism for alleged susceptibility to political pressures.
Katchanovski indicates he might seek another publisher, a process which could delay publication by a year.