In Moscow's Shadows

In Moscow's Shadows 124: Putin's Performative Politics

Dec 3, 2023

This podcast explores Putin's defensive politics, fragility of authoritarian regimes and lack of ideology. It also delves into Russia's shifting stance on homosexuality, political strategy of portraying Russia as a normal country, use of fear and reassurance in political communication, and performative politics.

53:38

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Quick takeaways

Putin actively shapes Russia's political landscape, recognizing the importance of his political image and regime's legitimacy in the upcoming presidential elections.

Russia's recent crackdown on the LGBTQ+ community is a performative display of social conservatism, aimed at creating a new support base and emphasizing traditional values.

Deep dives

The Significance of Politics for Putin

Despite being an autocrat, Putin actively engages in politics and cares about how he is perceived by the masses. He recognizes that as a leader, he cannot ignore public opinion, and he wants to shape Russia's political landscape. This is evident in his attention to domestic politics, as seen in the briefing books he receives daily, which focus on domestic issues. Putin understands that his political image and the perception of his regime's legitimacy are crucial, especially with upcoming presidential elections.

Analysis of Russian propaganda strategies

01:40

Introduction

6min

Putin's Fragile Regimes and Lack of Ideology

25min

Putin's Political Strategy and Portrayal of Russia as a Normal Country

6min

Fear, Reassurance, and Political Communication in Russia

11min

Russia's Triumph Through Adversity and Performative Politics

6min

There's a myth that authoritarian leaders don't have to worry about public politics: arguably they have to worry all the more. Spinning off from the recent bizarre criminalisation of the mythical 'international LGBT movement' and one or more raids on gay clubs, I unpack how I think Putin's political 'offer' to Russians will emerge over the months leading up to presidential elections: social conservatism, a warfighting nation rather than a nation at war, a scapegoated country, but also a 'normal country.'

The Denis Volkov article I mention is here.

The podcast's corporate partner and sponsor is Conducttr, which provides software for innovative and immersive crisis exercises in hybrid warfare, counter-terrorism, civil affairs and similar situations.

You can also follow my blog, In Moscow's Shadows, and become one of the podcast's supporting Patrons and gain question-asking rights and access to exclusive extra materials right here.

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