About Irina Khakamada and Lesson Overview
Russian politician Irina Khakamada was the most credible opposition candidate to run against Vladimir Putin in the 2004 Russian Presidential Elections. A feminist with interesting and provocative observations on the development both of democracy and capitalism in Russia, Khakamada discusses the political processes that unfolded in post-Soviet Russia and describes what she thinks Russia’s path should be.
In this lesson, students will become acquainted with Irina Khakamada, one of the leading Russian politicians of the time. The students will learn about Khakamada’s background, professional career, and decision to engage in politics. The students will read texts about current politics in Russia, visit websites of some important Russian political parties, and learn about the presidential election in Russia in 2004.
Authors: Victoria Thorstensson, with Shannon Donnally Quinn, Benjamin Rifkin, Dianna Murphy
New version created by: Shannon Donnally Quinn and Isabella Palange with help from Lidia Gault
Lesson 2: The First Stage of Reforms
In this lesson, Khakamada discusses Russia’s transition from an authoritarian regime to a democracy. She explains what historical events, in her opinion, led to that transition, and what difficulties the people of Russia had to face in view of such dramatic changes.
Authors: Nina Familiant, with Shannon Donnally Quinn, Benjamin Rifkin, Darya Vassina, Dianna Murphy
New version created by: Shannon Donnally Quinn and Isabella Palange with help from Lidia Gault
Lesson 3: The Struggle for Power
In this lesson, Khakamada discusses the events that took place in Russia after the collapse of the Soviet Union, Boris Yeltsin’s victory in Russia’s second democratic election, his resignation, and the accession of Vladimir Putin to the presidency. The students will learn about the relationships between Yeltsin and Russia’s leading businessmen (oligarchs) and their impact on national politics and policy.
Authors: Nina Familiant, with Shannon Donnally Quinn, Benjamin Rifkin, Darya Vassina, Dianna Murphy
New version created by: Shannon Donnally Quinn and Isabella Palange with help from Lidia Gault
Khakamada evaluates the country’s situation under President Putin, his strengths and weaknesses as a politician, and the obstacles which may prevent Russia from making a smooth transition toward democracy. Irina Khakamada also gives her views on Russia’s future, its dependency on the global oil market, and the possibility of another revolution.
Authors: Nina Familiant, with Shannon Donnally Quinn, Benjamin Rifkin, Darya Vassina, Dianna Murphy
New version created by: Shannon Donnally Quinn and Isabella Palange with help from Lidia Gault
