Introduction to Russian Law and Politics

The bicameral legislature of Russia, composed of the State Duma and the Federation Council.

Lower house of the Federal Assembly which approves laws passed from lower branches of the government

Upper house of the Federal Assembly; approves laws passed from the lower branches.

A court that settles disputes between federal government branches to maintain constitutionality

Court handling commercial and business disputes.

Highest court in the Russian legal system

Laws passed by the Federal Assembly concerning the Federal Constitution.

The minimum percentage of votes a political party needs to achieve to win representation in the legislature.

Putin was a member of the KGB (Soviet intelligence agency) before his political career.

Putin won the 2000 presidential election with significant opposition. He also won the 2004 election with less opposition because people liked him.

In 2008, Putin changed the presidential term from 4 years to 6 years, arguing it was for stability. The 'consecutive term' limit was also amended later, but Putin's terms are treated as new.

The 2020 referendum changed the constitution. It removed the limit on consecutive presidential terms.

The president is the head of state, responsible for security and constitution, and commander-in-chief of the armed forces.

Appointed by the president of Russia, this official handles the country's budget and implementation.

Opposition political figures may face challenges like imprisonment prior to election cycles.

Russia's actions and decisions impacting global affairs and international relations. This includes its use of power as well as its engagement with other nations.

Abuse of power and dishonesty within Russian institutions that negatively affects the Russian economy and society.

Russia's relationship and adherence to established international legal norms.

The principle that states have a right to self-governance and control over their own borders, preventing external interference.

Russia's controversial actions in conflicts, potentially violating international laws

Russia's actions including military deployments and involvement in Ukrainian territory.

Actions that violate fundamental human rights during a conflict.

Actions available to resolve conflicts through legal means when one or more state's rights have been compromised.

The constitution of the Russian Federation, established in 1993. It replaced the Soviet one and was inspired by the French Constitution.

The basic structure and principles of government, including rights and responsibilities.

The fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens, protected by the constitution.

The organization of a country into different levels and units of government (federal and local), outlining authority.

The Soviet Union's history includes widespread human rights violations and political repression (e.g., killings, purges, famines).

Elections in Russia and other countries may be affected by falsifications, and the outcome might not reflect genuine voter preference.

Political parties that seemingly oppose the ruling party but are in fact controlled by or compliant with the ruling power.

A high-profile legal case in Russia involving the oil giant Yukos, where the company's owner was convicted of tax evasion and sentenced to prison. Many believe this case was politically motivated, aiming to weaken opposition to the government.

The use of law as a means to achieve political ends, often targeting opponents or discouraging criticism.

Manipulating the electoral process to ensure a desired outcome, often through intimidation, media control, or manipulating voter registration.

The abuse of power for personal gain, often accompanied by the suppression of fundamental human rights, such as freedom of speech, assembly, and fair trials.

The risks faced by individuals who challenge authority, including threats, intimidation, and even death.

National governments sometimes interpret international laws in their own way, prioritizing their own laws and policies.

A nation's policies sometimes conflict with established legal principles. This conflict can be seen when policy decisions clash with international norms or domestic laws.

Russia's approach to surrounding countries often involves preventing them from joining Western-aligned organizations like the EU.

Powerful individuals (oligarchs) can hold significant influence and wealth. Their actions can sometimes be manipulated to serve or threaten the state's control.

Attempts to limit the spread of false information may be used as an excuse for limiting free speech, causing potential harm.

Certain Russian companies, like Yukos, sought to expand globally, often challenging traditional control systems.

The war in Ukraine started in 2022 and prompted the use of political tactics to challenge or avoid the international community's reactions/opinions.

Governments sometimes utilize legislation as a political tool instead of a legitimate means of enacting laws following international legal agreements and standards.