20200407 Putin and Russia's Constitutional Reform

When: 7 April, 2020 at 1500CEST/1400UTC/0900EST

Where: Zoom Webinar

Connection Instructions: Use the above registration link to register through Zoom. Webinar can be viewed either through the downloaded software (non-government computer), in the browser through Chrome (government computer), or though apps for both Android and Apple platforms.

Presentation Summary

In light of recent constitutional changes in Russia, Emily Ferris of the Royal United Services Institute will unpack what some of these amendments could mean for the reconfiguration of regional responsibility and decision-making processes in Russia. These changes technically allow for Putin to seek another term in office after 2024, but the Kremlin is holding off making a definitive decision on this, preferring instead to leave all doors open. But the changes do suggest a refocus and potential redistribution of responsibility (but not power) among regional governors, as they are key implementers of Putin's legacy - his National Projects. Governors who find they are unable to execute Moscow's orders to improve infrastructure, economically improve their regions and quell protest action, may find themselves rotated out of office.

About the Presenter

Emily Ferris

Emily Ferris is a Research Fellow in the International Security Studies department at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) in London, specialising in Russian domestic and foreign policies. Emily has a particular interest in regional political processes and infrastructure in the Russian Far East, as well as Russia's political and security approach towards Belarus. Before joining RUSI in 2018, Emily worked at Control Risks - a London consultancy firm - as a Russian security and politics analyst, advising clients conducting business in Russia and other Eastern European countries. She has worked and travelled extensively across Russia and speaks Russian, German and Hebrew.

Presentation Materials