Putin's authoritarian rule has eroded democracy and civil liberties in Russia from "summary" of Putin's People by Catherine Belton
Catherine Belton's 'Putin's People' provides a detailed account of how Vladimir Putin's rise to power has had a detrimental impact on democracy and civil liberties in Russia. Through a series of strategic moves, Putin has consolidated his power and established an authoritarian rule that has undermined the foundations of democracy in the country. One of the ways in which Putin has eroded democracy is by manipulating the political system to ensure his continued reign. He has cracked down on political opposition, stifled dissent, and silenced critical voices through a combination of legal measures and extrajudicial tactics. By controlling the media and limiting freedom of speech, Putin has created an environment where alternative viewpoints are suppressed, and independent journalism is increasingly rare. In addition to targeting political opponents, Putin has also taken steps to weaken the institutions that are meant to serve as checks on executive power. The judiciary, for example, has been co-opted by the Kremlin, leading to a lack of judicial independence and a system where the rule of law is often disregarded in favor of political expediency. This erosion of institutional integrity has further undermined the democratic process in Russia. Furthermore, Putin's authoritarian rule has had a chilling effect on civil society, with NGOs, human rights organizations, and activists facing increasing scrutiny and harassment. Laws have been passed that restrict the activities of these groups, making it difficult for them to operate freely and hold the government accountable. This crackdown on civil liberties has further eroded the democratic freedoms that were once seen as a hallmark of post-Soviet Russia.- 'Putin's People' paints a grim picture of the state of democracy and civil liberties in Russia under Vladimir Putin's leadership. Through a combination of political manipulation, institutional weakening, and civil society repression, Putin has established a system of governance that prioritizes his own power and control over the rights and freedoms of the Russian people.
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