Russia has found itself in a difficult period of redefinition of its status and identity. The process of redefining Russia’s identity has been troubling for the society at large and, in particular for the ruling elites. Indeed, much as been at stake in this redefinition process in terms of the self-esteem of the political leadership and reconstruction of the national spirit. The essay will critically evaluate Russian transition towards democracy in particular indicating its weaknesses.Taking into consideration changes that occurred in Russia over the last decade, we may undoubtedly say that democratization did occur and electoral democracy did emerge. Even though the trajectory has continued in an antidemocratic direction for several years, especially lately, we also posit that the political system still retains some democratic features. Whether these democratic traits are significant enough to label Russia a democracy is debatable. I however would risk a statement that Russia has not made a successful transition to democracy. Furthermore, as I will try to prove later in the essay, even though Russia is not a dictatorship, it is certainly moving towards an autocratic direction.
Unfortunately two and a half millennia after Athens, democracy still remains a complex concept and a subject of debate for scholars and students all over the world. To assess whether country has made a democratic transition it is necessary to define what democracy is. Therefore, the starting point of the essay will be a definition of democracy and criteria that country should meet to be considered a democracy. The first part of the essay will also shortly explain different types of democracies. The second part will examine Russian transition to democracy taking into consideration: firstly – 10 democratic criteria initially created by Larry Diamond and secondly – some of the main democratic features: legitimate constitution, fair elections, role of political parties and freedom of media.
No comments:
Post a Comment