The Politics of Bad Governance in Contemporary Russia

Vladimir Gel’man’s The Politics of Bad Governance in Contemporary Russia explores the dynamics of governance, emphasizing the intentionality behind bad governance and its historical prevalence.

In The Politics of Bad Governance in Contemporary Russia, Vladimir Gel’man delves into the complexities of governance in post-Soviet Russia. Through a thorough analysis of various case studies, he examines how political and policy changes have shaped the landscape of governance. Gel’man argues that bad governance is not merely a byproduct of ineffective leadership; rather, it represents a distinct politico-economic order characterized by specific formal and informal rules that diverge significantly from the principles of good governance.

The author posits that many leaders intentionally perpetuate systems of bad governance to serve their self-interests, creating a cycle that prioritizes short-term gains over long-term stability. By framing bad governance as an agency-driven phenomenon, Gel’man challenges conventional views and explores the underlying causes and mechanisms that sustain such governance in Russia and beyond. This perspective encourages readers to rethink the historical context of state-building and the dynamics of political regimes.

Moreover, Gel’man highlights the irony that while bad governance is often viewed as an anomaly in developed nations, it has been the norm throughout much of human history. The book suggests that the prevalence of ineffective and corrupt governments is a recurring theme, with good governance emerging only as a recent development. By analyzing contemporary Russia as a case study, The Politics of Bad Governance in Contemporary Russia offers valuable insights into the ongoing challenges faced by political leaders and the implications for governance worldwide.