Abstract:
The main topics of this thesis are elections and electoral culture in Russia. The election process is investigated with a focus on the Chelyabinsk region and in particular the regional capital Chelyabinsk. Elections between the years 1999 and 2005 are taken into account; however, the emphasis is on the period 1999-2002. Additional supporting details are included.
The descriptive approach and the open concept of ‘electoral culture’ have been chosen to broaden the scope of this thesis beyond a standard assessment of the “democratic quality” of elections. Thus, the thesis describes different aspects and actors in Russian electoral processes, underpinned by selected examples. Election commissions and election campaign supporters are taken into consideration, as well as candidates, voters and the coverage of elections by the media. In this context, the thesis aims to provide a “grass roots” perspective of the every day aspects of elections and their implementation.