Russia's elections will be stage-managed, not a test of public opinion
Russia's elections will be stage-managed and will not show what Russians truly think about the war or economy.
Russia is not a democracy, but it does hold elections. From September 18-20, voters will elect representatives to parliament, as governors, and as regional deputies.
Russian elections will not show what Russians truly think. The war in Ukraine is now in its fifth year.
It has caused an estimated 1.4 million battlefield casualties. About 30,000 soldiers are killed or injured each month.
Some authoritarian leaders hold elections to look democratic. They keep total control anyway.
Putin's United Russia party has run parliament since 2003. Russia only lets approved parties run.
Some are fake opposition parties, like the Communist Party. No real democratic deputies have served in the Duma since 2007.
These elections help the regime in two ways. They let leaders check public mood.
They also help get supporters mobilized. But voters have no real choice.
Real accountability does not exist.
- September 18-20
- Election dates
- Parliament since 2003
- United Russia control
- None in Duma since 2007
- Democratic deputies
Why it mattersAuthoritarian elections look fair but are not. They give the false appearance of legitimacy. But voters have no real power over government decisions or policy.
AustraliaUnderstanding how authoritarianism operates globally helps Australians recognise the value of free elections and genuine democratic choice at home.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 6 d ago
