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General Affairs Op-Ed July 19, 2023

Vladimir Putin’s Political Legacy: Probably the most controversial political figure of our times

Photo: Unsplash.com

Vladimir Putin, the enigmatic figure who has dominated Russian politics for over two decades, has left an indelible mark on his country’s political landscape. From his rise to power in 1999 as prime minister to his presidency and subsequent re-elections, Putin has garnered both admiration and concern from observers around the world. As his tenure comes to a close, it is essential to assess his political legacy and its implications for Russia and the international community. One of Putin’s most significant achievements has been his ability to consolidate power within Russia. Through a combination of political maneuvering, constitutional amendments, and control over key institutions, Putin has strengthened the presidency, limiting the influence of other political actors. This centralization has allowed him to exert control over the government, media, and business oligarchs, effectively silencing dissent and extending his influence.

Under Putin’s leadership, Russia experienced significant economic growth and stability but with what cost? High oil prices during his early years in office fueled this growth, allowing Putin to invest in infrastructure, pay off external debt, and increase living standards for many Russians. However, this economic expansion was heavily reliant on natural resources, leaving the country vulnerable to fluctuations in global commodity prices. Putin’s political legacy is characterized by a resurgence of Russian nationalism and a more assertive foreign policy. He successfully tapped into a sense of national pride and patriotism, promoting traditional values and reinforcing Russia’s status as a global power. This shift was accompanied by the annexation of Crimea in 2014, which drew international condemnation, and an increased assertiveness in challenging Western influence in regions such as Syria and Eastern Europe. While Putin’s tenure has seen stability and economic growth, it has also witnessed an erosion of democratic institutions and human rights in Russia. Critics argue that he has stifled political opposition, curtailed media freedom, and suppressed civil society organizations. Furthermore, allegations of electoral irregularities and crackdowns on protests have raised concerns about the state of democracy under Putin’s rule. Vladimir Putin’s political legacy is complex and multifaceted. While he has undoubtedly solidified his grip on power and achieved economic stability, his legacy is marred by allegations of corruption, human rights abuses, and a shrinking space for political opposition. His assertive foreign policy has also strained Russia’s relationships with Western powers, leading to increased geopolitical tensions. Vladimir Putin’s political legacy is the subject of ongoing debate and analysis. His tenure as Russia’s leader has witnessed a consolidation of power, economic growth, and a more assertive foreign policy. However, concerns over democratic institutions, human rights, and international relations persist. As Putin’s influence wanes in the coming years, it will be crucial to assess the long-term implications of his political legacy on Russia’s future trajectory and its relationship with the global community. Probably the most controversial episode of his political legacy will remain the war with Ukraine and the destabilization of geopolitical security in Eastern Europe.
By Cora Sulleyman

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