Dr Andrzej Szabaciuk, senior analyst at the Institute of Central Europe, commented for Interia.pl on the processes taking place in contemporary Russia, including the reshaping of the country’s political and social elites and the increasing militarisation of the state.
In an interview with Jakub Krzywiecki, Dr Szabaciuk analyses the significance of the upcoming elections to the State Duma, highlighting the role of war veterans in the formation of new elites loyal to the Kremlin. He also discusses the mechanisms of centralisation of power, propaganda, and the shrinking space for opposition to Vladimir Putin’s policies.
One of the key themes of his commentary is the concept of “homo putinicus” – a new model of the Russian citizen shaped by militarisation, the cult of the leader, hostility towards the West, and the instrumental use of history and religion. Dr Andrzej Szabaciuk points out that this process could permanently transform Russian society and the functioning of the state, including after the current president’s rule comes to an end.
Dr Szabaciuk also discusses the prospects for further escalation of the war against Ukraine and the implications of the ongoing transformations in Russia for European security.
Full article available on Interia.pl: Russia Is Creating “Homo Putinicus”: The New System Is Designed to Outlive Putin
“Homo Putinicus” – Andrzej Szabaciuk on How Russia Is Changing for Generations