Abstract

Since the early 2000s, restrictions against nongovernmental organizations in Russia have drastically increased with some of the oldest organizations in the country being liquidated. Why, in Putin-era Russia, has the Russian state gone to such great lengths to repress NGOs? This study utilizes case study comparisons of NGOs, both independent and state-run, to situate these efforts for repression in the broader context of the Kremlin’s efforts for political control and centralization—specifically as it relates to bolstering nationalistic sentiments, controlling information, and co-opting political engagement. Examining published materials, activities, and state response, this study finds support for the idea that the Russian government uses repression as a means of not only eliminating political threats, but also as a means of controlling historical narratives and centralizing the state in information sharing and avenues of political activity.

Advisor

Kille, Kent

Second Advisor

Rewinski, Zach

Department

Political Science; Russian Studies

Disciplines

Political Science | Slavic Languages and Societies

Keywords

Russia, nongovernmental organizations, repression

Publication Date

2023

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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