Modern Times - Is There Movement in Russian Politics?

Author(s): Hans-Henning Schröder
Editor(s): Stephen Aris, Matthias Neumann, Robert Orttung, Jeronim Perovic, Heiko Pleines, Hans-Henning Schröder
Series: Russian Analytical Digest (RAD)
Issue: 77
Pages: 2-5
Publisher(s): Center for Security Studies (CSS), ETH Zurich; Research Centre for East European Studies, University of Bremen; Institute of History, University of Basel
Publication Year: 2010

In 2009 the Medvedev Administration launched a comprehensive modernization policy seeking to overcome the many problems that hinder Russia's development. In 2010 the first concrete results of these policies can be seen. Of course, no one expects Medvedev to make quick progress in restructuring the state apparatus, replacing personnel or reducing the level of corruption. However, in some areas there are perceptible changes. These are most obvious in the reform of the Interior Ministry and the police force. The measures initiated by the Medvedev administration are followed by a public that uses the Internet as a medium for criticism. However, democratization is not the goal of the president's modernization policies. He has not sought to change the functioning power vertical which depends on a loyal corps of governors, flanked by regional legislatures under the tight control of well-managed parties. There is no space for initiatives from below. Moreover, a further goal is to forge alliances and to weaken potential adversaries in the run up to the decision on presidential succession, which will be made in the second half of 2011.

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