Protests of the Opposition in Russia (2011–2022): The Path to Totalitarian Dictatorship
The events in Russia over the decade from 2011 to 2022 are marked by escalating political tensions, mass protests, repression against the opposition, and the gradual consolidation of an authoritarian regime. Below is a chronology of key events and developments:
2011–2012: Protests Against Election Fraud
- December 2011: Mass protests erupted following the State Duma elections, which were marred by widespread allegations of fraud. Major rallies took place on Bolotnaya Square and Sakharov Avenue in Moscow. Protesters demanded fair elections and the resignation of Vladimir Putin.
- May 2012: The "March of Millions" took place on the eve of Putin's inauguration for a third presidential term. Protests on Bolotnaya Square ended in violent clashes with police. Dozens of participants were prosecuted in what became known as the "Bolotnaya Case."
2013–2014: Tightening of the Screws
- 2013: Alexei Navalny ran for mayor of Moscow, securing about 27% of the vote. Navalny's campaign symbolized the growing political activity of the opposition.
- 2014: The annexation of Crimea and the war in eastern Ukraine shifted public focus to supporting government actions. Protest movements weakened as state propaganda intensified.
2015–2018: Nemtsov’s Assassination and Isolation of the Opposition
- February 2015: The assassination of Boris Nemtsov on the Bolshoy Moskvoretsky Bridge became a symbol of the dangers faced by opposition figures.
- During this period, authorities increased pressure on independent media and activists, shutting down opposition NGOs and labeling them as "foreign agents."
2019: Protests for Free Elections
- Summer 2019: Mass protests erupted in Moscow over the authorities’ refusal to register independent candidates for the Moscow City Duma elections. The government cracked down on protests, arresting hundreds of people and initiating criminal cases ("the Moscow Case").
2020–2021: Navalny’s Return and Mass Repressions
- August 2020: Alexei Navalny was poisoned with Novichok. After receiving treatment in Germany, he returned to Russia in January 2021 and was immediately arrested.
- January–February 2021: Protests in support of Navalny spread across the country. Authorities responded with mass arrests, internet blockades, and new laws targeting "undesirable organizations."
- June 2021: Navalny’s Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) was declared an extremist organization, and its activities were banned.
2022: War, Suppression of Dissent, and Totalitarianism
- February 2022: The war in Ukraine marked a new phase in Russia's political trajectory. Anti-war protests were brutally suppressed, and laws were introduced criminalizing "discrediting the army," punishing any form of dissent.
- Independent media and social networks were blocked. Thousands fled the country to escape repression.
Outcomes
By 2022, Russia had transformed into a totalitarian state where any form of dissent is crushed. Independent journalism was almost entirely destroyed, and opposition leaders killed (e.g., Navalny, Nemtsov) or in exile. Repression, control over information, and war solidified Putin's power, but the country's isolation and growing public dissatisfaction set the stage for potential future changes.