Publication

This publication discusses the struggle for dominance between Russia's political leadership and the constraints imposed on their use of power by the policy process. The author argues that the conflict between President Vladimir Putin's government and the former oil company YUKOS serves as an example of systemic contradictions between business and structures of governance within Russia. He concludes that due to a 'might makes right' approach to disputes between energy companies and the government, western firms are unlikely to invest for fear of becoming pawns in political games within Russia.