Democracy in Russia

For the first time ever the other day - the blog site attracted more readers from Russia than from America.

On a typical day around 80% of visitors are from the UK - followed by the USA, then a variety of western European countries - and finally a host of others from around the world.

But interest from Russia has picked up noticeably - which I hope is a sign that people in Russia are looking for ideas and inspiration - instead of an indication that I am on the KGB's radar screen for making fun of Prime Minister/President Putin.

I don't know what the KGB is called these days - but clearly the state run police force has lost some of its power to frighten and intimdate Russian citizens - if last week's march and demonstration is anything to go by.

Many Russians are outraged at the widespread election rigging that took place in the recent elections to the Russian Duma - or Parliament.

Where Vladimir Putin's party - United Russia - emerged the 'victor', albeit without the overall majority it enjoyed in the last parliament.

Former president of the Soviet Union - Mikhail Gorbachev - joined other protesters to condemn Vladimir Putin's 'pass the parcel' approach to democracy in Russia - where the post of President is passed back and forwards between Vladimir Putin and someone of his own choosing.

The road to reform is likely to be long and hard - the forces of conservatism in Russia are strong - but they are no longer all powerful as they were in previous years.

Ten years ago the tens of thousands of demonstrators who joined Mikhail Gorbachev in calling for greater transparency and more political freedom - would have been vilently beaten off the streets.

Looking at things from afar it seems that the allure of Valdimir Putin has finally worn off - the ridiculous strong man act has lost whatever appeal it possessed - once upon a time.

The Russian people seem willing to laugh at Presidents and Prime Ministers who treat their citizens as useful idiots - which is a hugely encouraging sign.  

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