Examines the structure of Russia's federation, focusing on the tension between its constitutional framework and the reality of extreme centralization of power under Putin.
A federal system where some subnational units have more power or a different constitutional status than others. In Russia, ethnic republics theoretically have greater autonomy (e.g., their own constitutions) than other regions like oblasts and krais.
How many federal subjects (constituent units) does Russia have?
The number is currently \(89\), including the territories annexed from Ukraine which are not internationally recognized. These subjects include republics, krais, oblasts, federal cities, an autonomous oblast, and autonomous okrugs.
What key change did Putin make regarding the selection of regional governors in 2004?
He abolished their direct popular election, implementing a system where the president appointed governors who were then confirmed by regional legislatures. This was a critical step in building the 'power vertical' and centralizing control.
What are the "federal districts" created by Putin in 2000?
Russia was divided into several large districts (currently eight), each overseen by a presidentially-appointed envoy. This structure was created to impose federal authority over the regions and ensure governors complied with Moscow's policies.
Who are the presidential envoys to the federal districts?
They are powerful officials appointed by the president, often with backgrounds in the security services (siloviki). Their job is to supervise federal agencies in the regions and monitor the activities of regional governors, acting as the president's eyes and ears.
Describe the relationship between the central government and the Republic of Chechnya.
After two brutal wars, Chechnya was pacified. It now operates under a model of 'co-optation,' where its local authoritarian leader, Ramzan Kadyrov, is given vast autonomy and resources in exchange for ensuring stability and absolute loyalty to Vladimir Putin.
What has been the general trend in center-periphery relations since 2000?
The trend has been one of overwhelming centralization. The significant regional autonomy and defiance of the 1990s have been replaced by a highly centralized 'power vertical,' where regional leaders have little independence from the Kremlin.
How does the central government control regional finances?
Through a system of fiscal federalism where the federal government collects the majority of tax revenues and then redistributes funds back to the regions. This makes most regions financially dependent on transfers from Moscow, serving as a powerful lever of control.
Why did Yeltsin's government in the 1990s permit significant regional autonomy?
The central state was extremely weak after the Soviet collapse. Granting autonomy was a pragmatic move to prevent further disintegration of the country, famously summarized by Yeltsin telling regional leaders to 'take as much sovereignty as you can swallow.'
Were direct elections for governors ever restored after being abolished in 2004?
Yes, they were formally restored in 2012. However, the law included a 'presidential filter,' a mechanism requiring candidates to get signatures from municipal deputies who are themselves controlled by the ruling party. This filter effectively allows the Kremlin to pre-approve all viable candidates.
