Question

How has the shift from Russias culture and political believes of the late 20th century affected Russias election policies

Answer 1

The shift in Russia's culture and political beliefs from the late 20th century to the present has had a profound impact on its electoral policies and practices. Here are several key ways in which this transformation has manifested:

1. **Centralization of Power**: The late 20th century saw the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the rise of a more democratic political environment in the 1990s. However, since Vladimir Putin came to power in 2000, there has been a significant centralization of political power. This has resulted in the weakening of democratic institutions and the establishment of a system where elections are tightly controlled and managed by the state.

2. **Election Manipulation**: In contrast to the more open electoral practices of the early post-Soviet period, contemporary Russian elections have been characterized by broader manipulation, including the use of state resources to support the ruling party, restrictions on opposition participation, and allegations of electoral fraud. The electoral framework has been adjusted to favor the incumbent and discourage genuine competition.

3. **Legislation Changes**: Over the years, Russia has enacted a number of legal changes that have impacted the electoral process. For example, laws limiting the activities of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), banning "foreign agents," and imposing restrictions on protests and political rallies have all made it more challenging for opposition voices to operate and for citizens to engage in the political process.

4. **Media Control and Propaganda**: The shift in political beliefs has also been reflected in the state’s control over the media landscape. In the late 20th century, there was a growing plurality of voices and media outlets, whereas today, most media is state-controlled or heavily censored. The government utilizes propaganda to uphold its narrative and suppress dissent, affecting public perceptions of the electoral process.

5. **Nationalism and Populism**: The rise of nationalism as a political ideology has shaped electoral policies and rhetoric. The government promotes a narrative centered on national sovereignty and strength, framing elections as a means of legitimizing the current regime in the face of perceived external threats, particularly from the West.

6. **Changing Public Attitudes**: The cultural shift towards a more authoritarian mindset among parts of the population has also influenced electoral policies. Many citizens may support or accept the current political structure due to nostalgia for the stability of past regimes or fear of instability. This alters the dynamics of electoral competition and public engagement.

7. **Opposition Suppression**: In the late 20th century, Russia experienced a burgeoning of civil society and political expression. Today, significant opposition figures have been imprisoned, exiled, or otherwise marginalized, making it increasingly difficult for any viable alternative to be presented during elections. This is indicative of a political culture that increasingly views dissent as a threat rather than an essential element of democracy.

In conclusion, the evolution of Russia’s culture and political beliefs since the late 20th century has significantly transformed its election policies, with a marked shift towards authoritarianism, centralized power, and limited political pluralism. This has led to a context in which elections primarily serve to reinforce the existing regime rather than facilitate genuine democratic governance.