Emphasizing that winning 87 percent of the vote and handpicking compliant candidates does not constitute a genuine election, Professor Veljko Vujačić argues that such practices do not strengthen Putin’s position; rather, they highlight the regime’s weaknesses. Similarly, the murder of Alexei Navalny does not demonstrate strength; it reveals weakness. He further asserts, “I find the term ‘dictatorship’ more accurately encapsulates the reality of the Putin regime than ‘autocracy’ or ‘authoritarianism’ because Putin’s behavior epitomizes dictatorship, where power is wielded outside the confines of law and constitution. Currently, his regime seems to be veering toward a weak form of totalitarianism.”
Interview by Selcuk Gultasli
Professor Veljko Vujačić, a distinguished scholar of Russian, East European, and Eurasian Studies at Oberlin College and Conservatory, is renowned for his deep understanding of Russian history and contemporary politics. In an exclusive interview with the European Center for Populism Studies (ECPS), Professor Vujačić argues, "The recent election doesn’t strengthen Putin." Through this lens, he peels back the layers of Putin’s grip on power, delving into the historical origins of autocracy in Russia. "It traces back to Ivan the Terrible and finds reinforcement during the reign of Peter the Great," he remarks, emphasizing the enduring legacy of authoritarianism.
Drawing upon his extensive research and firsthand experiences, Professor Vujačić sheds light on the fundamental drivers propelling authoritarianism and populism in contemporary Russia. "Populism has increasingly become a ubiquitous term in the Western discourse," he notes, "but it’s crucial to discern that populism typically originates from grassroots movements." Yet, amidst the rhetoric of representing the will of the nation, he argues, "the reality is that the state dictates to the nation, not the other way around."
With incisive analysis, Professor Vujačić explores the blurred boundaries between autocracy and dictatorship, challenging conventional narratives and revealing the intricate interplay between state power, societal dynamics, and geopolitical ambitions. "I firmly believe this regime qualifies as a dictatorship rather than simply an autocracy," he asserts, highlighting the shift towards personal rule under Putin’s leadership.
Furthermore, Professor Vujačić illuminates the internal dynamics shaping Putin’s governance approach, examining the suppression of dissent and the erosion of democratic norms. "The murder of Navalny does not demonstrate strength; it reveals weakness," he remarks, underscoring the regime’s vulnerabilities amidst mounting opposition.
Throughout the interview, Professor Vujačić’s voice emerges as a beacon of clarity, offering a nuanced understanding of Russia’s past, present, and future. As the world grapples with the implications of Putin’s regime, his insights serve as a timely reminder that the recent election does not fortify Putin’s grip on power, but rather exposes the fragility of his authoritarian rule.
22 сен 2024
