Member-only story

Boris Nemtsov: A Trailblazing Russian Politician and His Impact on Russian Politics

Roberto Bolaño

·8.1k Followers· Follow

Published in Boris Nemtsov And Russian Politics: Power And Resistance (Soviet And Post Soviet Politics And Society 181)

4 min read

811 View Claps

72 Respond

Save

Listen

Boris Nemtsov emerged as a leading figure in Russian politics following the collapse of the Soviet Union, advocating for democratic reforms and economic liberalization. Born in 1959 in Sochi, Russia, Nemtsov began his political career in the late 1980s, actively participating in the pro-democracy movement under Mikhail Gorbachev's leadership.

In 1991, Nemtsov was elected governor of Nizhny Novgorod Oblast, where he implemented significant economic reforms, including the privatization of state-owned industries. His success at the regional level propelled him to national prominence, and he was appointed First Deputy Prime Minister of Russia in 1997 under President Boris Yeltsin.

Boris Nemtsov and Russian Politics: Power and Resistance (Soviet and Post Soviet Politics and Society 181)

Boris Nemtsov and Russian Politics: Power and Resistance (Soviet and Post-Soviet Politics and Society Book 181)

by C.J. Bernstein

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1851 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	191 pages

Nemtsov's Role in Russian Democratic Reforms

As First Deputy Prime Minister, Nemtsov played a critical role in implementing economic reforms aimed at transitioning Russia to a market economy. He worked closely with Anatoly Chubais, the architect of Yeltsin's privatization program, to introduce measures such as the "voucher privatization" scheme, which distributed shares in state-owned enterprises to Russian citizens.

Nemtsov's commitment to democratic reforms extended beyond economic policy. He also advocated for greater transparency and accountability in government, calling for measures to combat corruption and strengthen the rule of law. His efforts faced fierce opposition from conservative elements within the Russian political establishment, who sought to maintain control over the country's resources and power structures.

Nemtsov's Criticism of Vladimir Putin

With the rise of Vladimir Putin to the presidency in 2000, Nemtsov became an outspoken critic of the Kremlin's increasingly authoritarian tendencies. He accused Putin of dismantling democratic institutions, suppressing political dissent, and consolidating power in the hands of the executive branch.

Nemtsov's criticism of Putin made him a target of political harassment and intimidation. He was subjected to legal challenges, smear campaigns, and physical attacks. Despite these attempts to silence him, Nemtsov remained defiant, organizing protests and speaking out against government overreach.

Nemtsov's Assassination and Its Impact

On February 27, 2015, Boris Nemtsov was assassinated in Moscow while walking across a bridge near the Kremlin. His murder sent shockwaves through Russia and the international community, raising questions about the state of democracy and political freedom in the country.

The investigation into Nemtsov's murder revealed that he had been killed by a team of Chechen hitmen linked to the Russian government. Five men were convicted of carrying out the assassination, but the mastermind behind the plot remains unknown.

Legacy and Impact on Russian Politics

Boris Nemtsov's assassination was a major blow to the democratic movement in Russia. He was a charismatic and principled leader who dedicated his life to fighting for a more just and prosperous society. His death served as a reminder of the dangers faced by those who dare to challenge the Kremlin's authority.

Nemtsov's legacy lives on through the Boris Nemtsov Foundation, established by his family and supporters to promote his ideals of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. The foundation supports human rights initiatives, promotes political dialogue, and provides assistance to victims of political repression in Russia.

In the years since Nemtsov's assassination, Russian politics have become increasingly repressive, with the Kremlin tightening its control over the media, judiciary, and political opposition. Amidst this crackdown, Nemtsov's legacy serves as a beacon of hope for those who continue to fight for a more democratic and accountable Russia.

Boris Nemtsov and Russian Politics: Power and Resistance (Soviet and Post-Soviet Politics and Society Book 181)

by C.J. Bernstein

5 out of 5