Russians Have Little Interest in Politics, Doubt Their Ability to Influence National Life – Poll

Map of Russia

MOSCOW. Nov 8 (Interfax) – Politics is yet to evoke interest among Russians; 66% of them pay no attention to political events, Levada Center told Interfax.

Only 26% of the respondents polled in 45 regions in October gave an affirmative answer to the question if they wished to take part in political life, at least in their home region. The indicator is practically unchanged since 2010.

Some 46% of the respondents are satisfied with the opportunities of involvement in the country’s political life, and 33% claim the opportunities are insufficient.

Sixty-eight percent doubt that their participation in rallies, demonstrations or strikes may influence national life, while 24% think the opposite.

Nearly half of the respondents (48%) define rallies and demonstrations as normal and democratic ways of attaining civil goals and insist the authorities have no right to ban them. Some 39% support the opinion that rallies and demonstrations must be banned if they break the peace or lead to riots.

The respondents were divided over Russia’s needs: 48% want “the authorities to be put under public control” and 40% want stronger authorities.

The number of Russians who believe in public control over the authorities grew from 48% to 56% since 2010, the Levada Center said. Fourteen percent say public control is mounting; the indicator stood at 9% in 2010.

Thirty-three percent of the respondents believe that the best way to solve one’s problems is to go to court; 24% have faith in the media and 22% in the executive authorities; 14% think one should seek assistance of a deputy and 13% suggest turning to the party one has voted for in the elections. Only 9% pin hopes on protest rallies.

Twenty-nine percent say there is simply no way to have one’s problems solved, the Levada Center reported.

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