Russia's Next Revolution: Reclaiming Lost Freedom
Abstract
In the 1990s Russia embraced liberal democratic principles, collaborated internationally, and granted its citizens unprecedented freedoms. More recently, the Russian government has engaged in provocative military actions in rejection of Western ideals while simultaneously reversing its transparency, repressing its people, controlling the media, acting aggressively toward former Soviet states, and seeking to usurp world order while propagating its own nefarious narrative. The Russian government today is in a weaker position than many realize due to social challenges, geopolitical ambitions, and severe economic trouble, which could lead to unrest and even revolution. This paper reviews Russias historical propensity for revolutionary change, discusses changes to Russian citizens freedoms, and explains how and why a revolution might occur. It concludes with recommendations on how to reestablish Western partnerships with Russia to promote stability while recognizing legitimate security, political, economic, and domestic concerns as well as its unique relationship with its near abroad.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 30, 2017
- Accession Number
- AD1032655
Entities
People
- Aaron C. Olsa
Organizations
- National Defense University