Question

How has the shift from Russias culture and political believes of the late 20th century affected Russias election policies
Russian citizens can vote
Certain ethnic groups can't vote
Resident aliens all have the right to vote

Answer 1

The shift in Russia's culture and political beliefs since the late 20th century, particularly following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, has significantly influenced its electoral policies and the broader political landscape. Here are some key points to consider in relation to the voting rights of Russian citizens and other groups:

1. **Strengthening of Central Authority**: In the late 20th century, Russia transitioned from a more open, albeit chaotic, political system to a centralized, authoritarian regime under leaders like Vladimir Putin. This centralization has led to increased control over the electoral process.

2. **Voting Rights for Citizens**: Russian citizens do have the right to vote. However, the fairness and competitiveness of elections have come under scrutiny. Over the years, there have been numerous allegations of electoral fraud, manipulation, and repression of opposition candidates, which undermine the genuine democratic process.

3. **Exclusion of Certain Groups**: While Russian citizens can vote, there have been periods and contexts in which certain groups have been disenfranchised. For example, various laws and policies can restrict the political participation of specific ethnic minorities or groups seen as opposition. However, outright bans on voting based on ethnicity are generally not formalized in law.

4. **Resident Aliens and Voting Rights**: Resident aliens typically do not have the right to vote in Russian elections. Voting rights in Russia are primarily reserved for citizens. This reflects a common trend in most countries, where non-citizens do not participate in electoral processes that determine national leadership.

5. **Political and Cultural Polarization**: The cultural shift toward a more nationalistic and conservative ideology has also affected electoral policies. The state has increasingly emphasized "Russian identity," which can marginalize ethnic minorities and dissenting voices. Policies that restrict the rights of certain groups can be viewed as a reflection of this broader cultural shift.

6. **Legislation Changes**: Over the years, electoral laws have been amended to strengthen the power of the ruling party and restrict competition. For instance, laws regulating political parties, campaign financing, and the registration of candidates often favor those aligned with the Kremlin, thereby reducing the space for opposition.

In summary, while all Russian citizens theoretically have the right to vote, the realities of the political system, manipulation of electoral processes, and cultural shifts towards nationalism and central authority have affected the integrity and inclusiveness of the electoral landscape.