identifications Flashcards

Question

What were 'loans for shares'?

Answer 1

A controversial privatization scheme in Russia during the 1990s where the government auctioned off state assets in exchange for loans. ## Footnote This led to the emergence of oligarchs who acquired significant wealth and power.

Answer 2

An ideology that combines Marxist theory with Lenin's interpretations, advocating for a vanguard party to lead the working class in establishing socialism. ## Footnote It served as the foundation for the Soviet Union's political system.

Answer 3

A method of privatizing state assets by distributing vouchers to citizens that can be exchanged for shares in state-owned enterprises. ## Footnote This approach aimed to involve the public in the transition to a market economy.

Answer 4

The last General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, known for his reforms of glasnost and perestroika in the 1980s. ## Footnote His policies contributed to the end of the Cold War and the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

Answer 5

A Russian businessman and former oligarch who was imprisoned for tax evasion and fraud after opposing the Kremlin. ## Footnote His case is often cited as an example of the state’s crackdown on dissent.

Answer 6

The process of adopting new technologies and practices to improve economic and social structures. ## Footnote In the context of post-Soviet states, it often refers to the transition to market economies.

Answer 7

A policy introduced by Lenin in 1921 that allowed some private enterprise and market mechanisms to stimulate the economy after the Russian Civil War. ## Footnote It marked a temporary retreat from full state control.

Answer 8

The leader of the Soviet Union from 1953 to 1964, known for his de-Stalinization policies and attempts at reforming the economy. ## Footnote His leadership included significant events like the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Answer 9

The date of the Bolshevik Revolution, which led to the establishment of a communist government in Russia. ## Footnote This revolution is a pivotal event in world history, marking the rise of the Soviet Union.

Answer 10

Wealthy individuals who exert significant influence over political and economic decisions, particularly in post-Soviet states. ## Footnote Their power often stems from the privatization of state assets.

Answer 11

The concept that decisions and outcomes are heavily influenced by historical precedents, making change difficult. ## Footnote It suggests that past choices shape future possibilities.

Answer 12

A system of political organization based on personal loyalty and patron-client relationships, often seen in post-Soviet states. ## Footnote It contrasts with more formal bureaucratic governance.

Answer 13

A policy initiated by Gorbachev aimed at restructuring the Soviet economy and political system to increase efficiency and openness. ## Footnote It included reforms such as decentralization and limited market elements.

Answer 14

A country whose economy is heavily dependent on oil exports, often leading to specific political and economic challenges. ## Footnote The term is frequently applied to Russia and several Middle Eastern countries.

Answer 15

A term referring to a group of powerful individuals or oligarchs who exert control over political and economic spheres, often in a coordinated manner. politicians whose reach extend deeply into the economy. ## Footnote It highlights the collective influence of these entities.

Answer 16

A theory suggesting that political systems experience long periods of stability interrupted by short periods of significant change. ## Footnote This concept can apply to policy changes or regime shifts.

Answer 17

The simultaneous transition of a country from communism to democracy, a market economy, a civil society, and the rule of law. ## Footnote This concept is often discussed in the context of post-Soviet states.

Answer 18

A region where the Russian ruble is used as the primary currency, impacting economic interactions and policies. ## Footnote It includes several former Soviet republics.

Answer 19

A rapid transition from a command economy to a market economy, often involving drastic reforms and austerity measures. ## Footnote This approach was implemented in several post-Soviet states in the 1990s.

Answer 20

Individuals in positions of power within the security services, military, and law enforcement in Russia, often influencing politics. ## Footnote They have significant impact on governance and policy-making.

Answer 21

A hierarchical structure in organizations or societies where power and resources are concentrated at the top and diminish as one moves down. ## Footnote This model can apply to political, economic, and social systems.

Answer 22

A fund established by the Russian government to manage surplus oil revenue and stabilize the economy during fluctuations in oil prices. ## Footnote It aims to buffer the economy from external shocks.

Answer 23

An economic system where the state has substantial control over the economy, often through ownership of key industries while allowing some market mechanisms. ## Footnote This model is often seen in Russia and China.

Answer 24

A political system where the state controls the means of production and distribution of goods, aiming for social ownership and equality. ## Footnote It is associated with Marxist-Leninist ideologies.

Answer 25

The non-financial social assets that promote social mobility, such as reputation, recognition, and prestige. ## Footnote This concept is often discussed in sociology and cultural studies.

Answer 26

The Emperor of Russia from 1855 to 1881, known for his significant reforms, including the emancipation of serfs. ## Footnote His reign is marked by attempts to modernize Russia.

Answer 27

Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, the former federal socialist state in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia from 1922 to 1991. ## Footnote It was a major global superpower during the Cold War.

Answer 28

A large exhibition center and park in Moscow, originally established as a showcase for Soviet achievements in agriculture and industry. ## Footnote It remains a cultural and recreational site today.

Answer 29

A park in Moscow dedicated to the victory over Nazi Germany in World War II, featuring monuments and memorials. ## Footnote It is a significant site for commemorating the Great Patriotic War.

Answer 30

A fast-food chain in Russia that emerged after the closure of McDonald's in the country, emphasizing local cuisine. ## Footnote It reflects changes in consumer culture and national identity.

Answer 31

The leader of the Bolshevik Revolution and the founder of the Soviet state, known for his role in establishing a communist government in Russia. ## Footnote His ideologies laid the groundwork for the Soviet system.

Answer 32

A memorial in Moscow dedicated to the victims of political repression during the Soviet era. ## Footnote It serves as a reminder of the human cost of totalitarian policies.

Answer 33

A term used to describe the chaotic and tumultuous period in Russia following the collapse of the Soviet Union, characterized by economic hardship and social upheaval. ## Footnote This era saw the rise of oligarchs and significant criminal activity.

Answer 34

Failed coup attempt by the hardliners of the Communist Party fueled by the desire to take over the government in the face of dramatic reforms passed by Gorbachev's government. ## Footnote Solidified the control which Yeltsin and the progressive government had over Russia.

Answer 35

* Duma must approve Prime Minister and non-"power" ministers * President appoints "power" ministers and can dismiss any minister * Previous presidential terms do not apply to constitutional term limits * Shrink Consitutional Court from 19 to 11 members * FC may remove high-level justices on recommendation of President * Cultural-historical amendments (marriage, god, language, heritage) * Russian Constitutional takes precendence over international law

Answer 36

* Russian opposition leader * anti-corruption activist * political prisoner * poisoned in August 2020, evacuated to Berlin * died in March 2024 (murdered?)

Answer 37

* 27 February – 26 March 2014

Answer 38

* first autonomous Soviet republic * founded in 1990 * mineral rich *

Answer 39

* Advancement through state or party ranks (ministries, agencies, etc.) * Based on loyalty, competence, and political connections * Determined by top-down appointments (not public elections) * Reinforces the Kremlin’s centralized "vertical of power" * Prioritizes loyal technocrats over independent politicians * Promoted officials are expected to follow central directives without dissent

Answer 40

A strategy used by the Kremlin during and after the Chechen wars Involved delegating control of Chechnya to pro-Moscow Chechen leaders Most notably implemented under Ramzan Kadyrov and his loyalists Aimed to suppress separatism by using local (rather than Russian) forces Created a semi-autonomous power structure loyal to Putin Resulted in authoritarian rule, human rights abuses, and a "state within a state"

Answer 41

A regional organization formed after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 Comprised several former Soviet republics (e.g., Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan) Intended to coordinate on economic, political, and military matters Aimed to provide a soft landing for post-Soviet transition Has limited effectiveness due to internal divisions and varying loyalties Some countries (e.g., Ukraine, Georgia) have withdrawn or distanced themselves Often seen as a Russian-led effort to maintain influence in the post-Soviet space

Answer 42

The main successor to the Soviet-era Communist Party Founded in 1993, after the USSR collapsed Led for decades by Gennady Zyuganov Promotes Soviet nostalgia, state control of the economy, and social conservatism Strongest support from older voters and rural areas Acts as a "systemic opposition" party—allowed to exist but generally loyal to the Kremlin Occasionally critical of the government, but rarely threatens the status quo

Answer 43

The highest judicial body for constitutional review in Russia Interprets the Constitution and resolves disputes about constitutional law Can rule on laws passed by the Duma, presidential decrees, and regional laws Judges are nominated by the president and approved by the Federation Council Meant to act as a check on state power, but often seen as politically compliant Has historically supported Kremlin initiatives, including constitutional amendments Plays a role in legitimizing controversial political changes (e.g., term resets)

Answer 44

Refers to mass forced deportations of entire ethnic groups by Joseph Stalin Targeted groups included Chechens, Ingush, Crimean Tatars, Balkars, and others Accused (often falsely) of collaborating with Nazi Germany during WWII Deported to Central Asia and Siberia, mainly Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan Conducted by the NKVD under harsh, inhumane conditions Resulted in high death tolls due to hunger, disease, and exposure Officially recognized as acts of repression, later condemned by post-Soviet governments

Answer 45

The lower house of Russia’s Federal Assembly (parliament) Consists of 450 deputies, elected for 5-year terms Has the power to pass laws, approve the prime minister, and oversee the government In practice, it’s dominated by pro-Kremlin parties (especially United Russia) Often acts as a rubber stamp for presidential initiatives Plays a key role in giving legal legitimacy to executive decisions Opposition exists but is usually part of the systemic opposition, with limited power

Answer 46

Mass protests sparked by widespread allegations of fraud in the 2011 parliamentary elections Targeted United Russia and Vladimir Putin, accusing them of rigging the vote Fueled by social media and a growing urban middle class Major protests held in Moscow and other cities — biggest since the 1990s Slogans included “Russia Without Putin” and calls for free elections Marked the rise of Alexei Navalny as a prominent opposition figure Government response included crackdowns, arrests, and tightening control over civil society

Answer 47

A regional economic bloc formed in 2015 by Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Armenia, and Kyrgyzstan Aimed at creating a single market for goods, services, capital, and labor Facilitates customs union and free trade among member states Seen as an effort to counterbalance European Union influence and promote Russian leadership in the post-Soviet space The EAEU has limited economic integration compared to the EU but fosters political and economic ties Includes a common currency zone (planned) and joint institutions like the Eurasian Economic Commission Faces challenges due to disparities in economic development among members and limited global impact

Answer 48

A series of protests and demonstrations in Ukraine that began in November 2013 Triggered by President Viktor Yanukovych’s decision to abandon an association agreement with the European Union in favor of closer ties with Russia Named after Independence Square (Maidan Nezalezhnosti) in Kyiv, where the protests were centered Protesters demanded democratic reforms, anti-corruption measures, and closer European integration Led to violent clashes between protesters and Ukrainian security forces (notably the Berkut riot police) Escalated into the 2014 Ukrainian Revolution, resulting in the ousting of Yanukovych Triggered Russia's annexation of Crimea and the beginning of the conflict in Eastern Ukraine (Donbas war)

Answer 49

Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, marking the start of the 2022 Russo-Ukrainian War President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" aimed at demilitarizing and denazifying Ukraine, although these claims were widely disputed and viewed as pretexts for aggression The invasion began with airstrikes and missile attacks across Ukraine, followed by a ground invasion from multiple directions Major cities, including Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Mariupol, came under heavy assault The invasion led to widespread international condemnation, with the United States, European Union, and other nations imposing severe sanctions on Russia Triggered a mass exodus of refugees from Ukraine, with millions fleeing to neighboring countries

Answer 50

Refers to changes or restructuring in the organization of power between the federal government and regional authorities Aimed at either increasing central control by the Kremlin or addressing issues of regional autonomy The most notable reform under Vladimir Putin was the 1999-2000 reforms that: Abolished elected governors in favor of presidential appointees Established federal districts to oversee regions more directly Reduced the influence of regional leaders on federal decision-making The reform emphasized centralization to strengthen the "vertical of power" Reforms often face pushback from regions seeking greater autonomy or greater economic control Includes various legal changes, such as the introduction of the Federation Council to represent regions, and reforms on how laws are passed and enforced

Answer 51

The upper house of the Federal Assembly (Russia’s parliament) Composed of 170 members, with two representatives from each of Russia's 85 federal subjects (regions) Members are appointed, not elected, with one senator selected by each region’s legislature and the other by its governor The Federation Council has the power to approve federal laws, especially those related to war and peace, constitutional amendments, and presidential appointments Plays a less active role in lawmaking compared to the State Duma (lower house), often acting as a rubber stamp for the executive Its composition and function are designed to ensure regional representation at the federal level, though critics argue it has little independent power Historically, it has supported centralized control, particularly under Vladimir Putin’s administration

Answer 52

A conflict between Russia and Chechnya that took place from 1994 to 1996 Chechnya declared independence from Russia following the collapse of the Soviet Union, leading to tensions The Russian government, under Boris Yeltsin, sought to reassert control over the region and prevent separatism The war was marked by brutal fighting, including sieges (e.g., of Grozny) and heavy civilian casualties The Russian military faced significant difficulties, with Chechen fighters utilizing guerilla tactics and receiving popular support from many Chechens The war ended with the Khasavyurt Agreement in 1996, which granted Chechnya de facto independence but did not settle the broader political issues Although officially Russia did not recognize Chechnya's independence, the war left the region in a state of instability The conflict created a legacy of bitterness and contributed to the Second Chechen War in 1999

Answer 53

A law passed in 2012 requiring non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that receive foreign funding and engage in political activities to register as "foreign agents" The term "foreign agent" has negative connotations, implying espionage or foreign influence The law was aimed at restricting the activities of foreign-funded organizations that might oppose the government or push for democratic reforms NGOs that fail to comply face fines, closure, and increased scrutiny from the government Critics argue that the law is used to stifle dissent and suppress civil society In 2015, the law was expanded to include media outlets that receive foreign funding, labeling them as foreign agents as well The law has led to the closure or self-exile of several prominent NGOs and has made it difficult for activists to operate freely in Russia

Answer 54

A brief military conflict between Russia and Georgia over the separatist regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia Began on August 7, 2008, when Georgia attempted to regain control of South Ossetia, which had declared independence with Russian backing Russia responded by launching a full-scale invasion of Georgia, claiming it was protecting Russian citizens and peacekeepers in the region The war lasted for five days, with Russian forces quickly advancing into Georgia and pushing Georgian forces out of both South Ossetia and Abkhazia The conflict ended with a ceasefire agreement brokered by the French Presidency of the European Union Russia subsequently recognized both South Ossetia and Abkhazia as independent states, though Georgia and most of the international community do not recognize their independence The conflict further strained Russia–Georgia relations and had long-lasting implications for the South Caucasus region It also highlighted Russia’s growing influence in its "near abroad" and its willingness to use military force to protect its interests

Answer 55

A prominent human rights organization in Russia, founded in 1989 by a group of intellectuals, including Andrei Sakharov, to preserve the memory of the Soviet repression Focuses on documenting and raising awareness about the victims of political repression during the Stalinist period, including the Great Purge and the Gulag system Works to promote historical memory, truth about Soviet crimes, and human rights in contemporary Russia Memorial is also involved in monitoring modern human rights abuses and advocating for democracy and civil liberties The organization has faced increasing government scrutiny, particularly after the 2012 Foreign Agents Law, and has been targeted for its activities In 2021, Russian authorities moved to shut down Memorial, accusing it of not properly registering as a "foreign agent" and criticizing its historical narrative The closure of Memorial in 2022 marked a significant blow to independent civil society in Russia, as the organization had been one of the most respected voices for human rights in the country

Answer 56

A form of economic policy that advocates for government spending on military production as a means to stimulate economic growth Based on the ideas of John Maynard Keynes, who believed in using government spending to manage economic cycles (especially during recessions) Military Keynesianism argues that military spending can create jobs, promote technological innovation, and boost demand in key sectors of the economy Has been used by various governments, particularly during times of war or geopolitical tension, as a means of promoting national economic growth Often criticized for diverting resources from social welfare programs or infrastructure to defense spending In Russia, this policy has been seen as a way to stimulate industrial sectors (e.g., defense, aerospace) while strengthening the military-industrial complex and reinforcing national security

Answer 57

A concept in international relations where power is distributed across multiple global centers or poles, rather than being dominated by one or two superpowers In a multipolar world, no single country or bloc (like the U.S., China, or Russia) is able to unilaterally dictate the rules of the international system Advocates argue that multipolarity leads to more balanced global power, offering smaller nations more influence and reducing the likelihood of hegemonic dominance Often contrasted with unipolarity (dominated by one power) and bipolarity (two main powers, like during the Cold War) Russia, China, and the European Union are often cited as key players in a multipolar world, with each exerting influence in different regions and domains (e.g., economic, military, political) Multipolarity can lead to greater competition but also opportunities for cooperation on global issues like climate change, trade, or security

Answer 58

Refers to the eastward enlargement of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) after the end of the Cold War Involved the inclusion of former Warsaw Pact countries and Soviet republics (e.g., Poland, Hungary, the Baltic States) into NATO starting in 1999 Expansion aimed at strengthening security in Eastern Europe and promoting democratic values and market economies in former communist states Russia has strongly opposed NATO expansion, viewing it as a threat to its sphere of influence and national security The inclusion of countries like Ukraine and Georgia in NATO's future plans has been a major point of tension with Russia, particularly leading up to the 2014 Ukrainian crisis and 2022 invasion NATO's expansion has led to debates about security dilemmas, where increasing one country’s security can make neighboring countries feel more vulnerable

Answer 59

A series of protests and political events in Ukraine that occurred from November 2004 to January 2005 Sparked by widespread allegations of election fraud in the 2004 presidential election, where pro-Russian candidate Viktor Yanukovych was declared the winner despite evidence of irregularities The movement was named the "Orange Revolution" after the color adopted by the opposition party of Viktor Yushchenko, who was the main rival to Yanukovych Demonstrations, particularly in Kyiv, were largely peaceful and drew massive crowds demanding a fair election The protests led to the court-ordered annulment of the election results and a new vote in December 2004, which Yushchenko won The revolution was seen as a victory for democracy, pro-European reforms, and a move toward closer ties with the West Russia was critical of the Orange Revolution, viewing it as a Western-backed color revolution aimed at undermining its influence in Ukraine

Answer 60

The Presidential Administration is the executive body that supports the president of Russia in managing the country's affairs It operates separately from the government and parliament, but plays a key role in policy formation, legislation, and decision-making Led by the Chief of Staff (often a close ally of the president), the administration oversees the president’s agenda and advises on domestic and foreign policy It is a key element of the "vertical of power", a centralized structure of authority under Vladimir Putin The Presidential Administration is responsible for coordinating government ministries, drafting legislation, and ensuring presidential decrees are executed It also acts as a liaison between the president and the regions, business leaders, and the media Has significant influence over the policy process, often dictating the direction of key reforms or national initiatives

Answer 61

Pussy Riot is a Russian feminist punk rock band and activist group known for its protests against the Russian government and the Russian Orthodox Church Formed in 2011, the group is famous for staging guerrilla performances in public places, often with strong political messages Their most famous act occurred in 2012, when they performed a protest song in Moscow's Christ the Savior Cathedral, criticizing President Vladimir Putin and the church's support of him The protest, titled "Punk Prayer", led to the arrest of three band members: Nadezhda Tolokonnikova, Maria Alyokhina, and Yekaterina Samutsevich The women were charged with hooliganism and inciting religious hatred, leading to widespread international outcry and calls for their release Despite their imprisonment, Pussy Riot became a symbol of resistance to Putin’s government and an international feminist and human rights icon They have continued to use their music and activism to protest human rights abuses, LGBTQ+ rights, and government corruption in Russia and globally

Answer 62

Ramzan Kadyrov is the head of the Chechen Republic and has been in power since 2007, succeeding his father, Akhmad Kadyrov, who was assassinated in 2004 A close ally of Vladimir Putin, Kadyrov has maintained tight control over Chechnya through a combination of authoritarian rule, loyalty to the Kremlin, and brutal tactics He has been accused of numerous human rights violations, including the persecution of LGBTQ+ individuals, opposition activists, and anyone who challenges his rule Known for building a personalized cult of personality, Kadyrov has presented himself as a protector of Chechen traditions and Islam while receiving significant financial and political support from Moscow Under his rule, Chechnya has seen economic rebuilding, but it remains one of the most authoritarian regions in Russia, with Kadyrov's forces often acting as enforcers of his will Kadyrov’s public statements are often controversial, with him frequently expressing strong support for Putin’s policies, including Russia’s actions in Ukraine and Syria His rule is marked by a blend of loyalty to Moscow, Islamic conservatism, and severe repression of dissent

Answer 63

Sanctions refer to economic, trade, or diplomatic measures imposed by one country (or group of countries) on another to influence its behavior, usually in response to violations of international law or aggressive actions Russia has faced sanctions from the United States, the European Union, and other countries due to its actions in Ukraine (2014 annexation of Crimea, the 2022 invasion), human rights abuses, and interference in foreign elections Economic sanctions typically target key sectors such as energy, finance, and defense, as well as individuals and entities connected to the Russian government These sanctions aim to weaken Russia’s economy, limit access to capital, and punish key officials, while encouraging political and policy changes Sanctions against Russia also include travel bans, asset freezes, and restrictions on trade in military goods, technology, and financial transactions Russia has sought to counter these sanctions by strengthening economic ties with China, diversifying trade partners, and developing its domestic industries Critics argue that sanctions often hurt ordinary citizens more than political elites, while supporters believe they are necessary tools for deterring aggression and upholding international law

Answer 64

A conflict between Russia and Chechnya that lasted from 1999 to 2009, following the First Chechen War (1994-1996) Began in August 1999, when Chechen militants invaded the Russian republic of Dagestan and launched an insurgency against Russian rule The war was sparked by a series of apartment bombings in Russian cities, which the government blamed on Chechen separatists (though some suspected the Russian government might have been involved in staging them) Russian forces responded with a massive military campaign, eventually capturing Grozny, the Chechen capital, by February 2000 Ramzan Kadyrov, the current head of Chechnya, initially fought as an opposition figure, but later aligned with Russia, becoming a key ally in consolidating Russian control over the region The war led to significant destruction in Chechnya, with thousands of civilians killed and displaced The war officially ended in 2009, though insurgency and violence continued in the region for several years Resulted in Chechnya's de facto integration into Russia, with the establishment of a pro-Moscow government under Kadyrov, who has maintained strict control through authoritarian rule The war left a legacy of brutality, human rights violations, and ongoing regional instability

Answer 65

A term used to describe a political system in which the president holds overwhelming power over the government, often diminishing the role of other branches of government like the legislature and judiciary In such a system, the president is typically both the head of state and the head of government, with excessive control over key decisions, including foreign policy, national security, and appointments Superpresidentialism often leads to the concentration of power in the hands of a single leader, limiting democratic checks and balances Russia is often cited as an example of a superpresidential system, particularly under Vladimir Putin, where the president has significant control over political, economic, and social decisions The system often undermines the independence of the judiciary and weakens legislative oversight, leading to a centralized political structure Critics argue that superpresidentialism fosters authoritarianism, reduces political pluralism, and limits public accountability Putin’s Russia exemplifies superpresidentialism through the centralized power in the presidency and the creation of a “vertical of power” that gives the president ultimate authority over various state institutions

Answer 66

Systemic Opposition: Refers to political parties and groups that operate within the framework of the existing political system in Russia These groups generally participate in elections and work through legal channels, accepting the rules of the system while seeking reforms or presenting alternatives to government policies Examples include parties like the Communist Party of the Russian Federation (CPRF) and the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia (LDPR) Although critical of the government, they generally do not challenge the overall political structure or presidential dominance They often play a role in legislative debates, but their influence is typically limited by the dominance of United Russia and the executive branch Nonsystemic Opposition: Refers to opposition groups that are outside the established political system and reject the legitimacy of the current government structure These groups are often more radical, advocating for significant political change or the overthrow of the current system They typically operate in informal settings, organizing protests, civil disobedience, and activism rather than engaging in mainstream political institutions The Opposition of Alexei Navalny and other pro-democracy groups are prime examples of nonsystemic opposition Nonsystemic opposition is often repressed by the state, with leaders facing arrests, bans, and persecution

Answer 67

United Russia is the dominant political party in Russia, established in 2001 as a merger of various pro-government parties It is the largest party in the State Duma (Russia’s lower house of parliament) and is closely aligned with Vladimir Putin and his policies The party promotes a platform of national unity, economic stability, and Russian conservatism, often emphasizing Russian nationalism, Orthodox Christian values, and strong state control United Russia has been the primary political force supporting Putin’s presidency and is often described as the party of the “status quo” or “power party” It has been heavily criticized for its lack of political pluralism and dominance in Russian politics, with many accusing it of undermining democratic processes and engaging in election manipulation Despite criticisms of corruption and authoritarian tendencies, United Russia has maintained a firm grip on power, with state resources and media control supporting its dominance The party has faced opposition from both systemic and nonsystemic opposition parties, but it has successfully managed electoral victories through controlled political processes

identifications Flashcards

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