Developments in Russian Politics 4 examines the political system that has developed since the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991. But, unlike the previous editions of this study of Soviet and post-Soviet politics, this volume emphasizes post-communist Russia. The editors have gathered a distinguished group of international scholars for this project, both in the addition of new chapters and the updating and revision of existing materials.

These scholars focus on the extent to which Russia has made the transition not just from communist rule but to a form of government that for the first time gives Russians a degree of influence over the leaders who speak in their name. Individual chapters address such issues as elections and voting behavior, health care policy, women and public life, presidential power, and the politics of human rights.