Publication

This publication analyzes Russia's system of power with reference to the presidential elections of March 2008 and the 2008-2009 economic crisis. It assesses the power system developed under former president, now prime minister, Vladimir Putin and its influence upon the elections before considering the economic crisis' influence on the status and position of Russia's ruling elite. It concludes by discussing two projected scenarios based on the country's response to the crisis: 'inertia' versus 'profound and extensive crisis.' Either way, the author notes that the likelihood of the elite losing power is minute as there is no credible alternative.