Russia is an enigma. In the western hemisphere respectively the countries of the European
Union and USA it produces a lot of suspicion and resentments. Its vast spatial dimensions in
terms of size its controversial history and its stubborn focus on sovereignty when it comes
to foreign policy and the international community are the most prominent sources for
difficulties of understanding. In addition the Russian people liketo sustain a hint of mystery
themselves in claiming that no other nationality can understand them. Apart from stereotypes
and prejudices about typical Russian people and characteristics there are a handful of
assumptions one encounters that cling to public opinion about Russia s political landscape.
This work will treat the Russian political system as a contemporary phenomenon. Let us assume
all of those assumptions are held true why does the Russian population still accept those
deficits? The fact that the circumstances can be that unpromising and not many people try
tochange something leaves many spectators speechless. Where does the popular support of
society for President Putin come from? Which is the source of stability? Why were the civil
opposition movements in 2012 2013 mostly ignored by the majority? What are the reasons for the
lack of proneness to protest? Do Russians perceive the political system differently do they
maybe put another focus? Or do they simply fear oppression? The central question which will be
answered consequently reads Why does the Russian population supports Putin s political system
and regime?
