Economist Podcasts Potemkin polls: Russia’s elections
Sep 20, 2021
Arkady Ostrovsky, The Economist's Russia editor, and Avantika Chilkoti, international correspondent, dive into the contentious atmosphere surrounding Russia's recent elections, where Vladimir Putin's party emerged victorious amid claims of fraud. They discuss the waning facade of the Kremlin, the surprising resilience of the opposition, and Alexei Navalny's influence. Chilkoti highlights the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation's role in global health, questioning the efficacy of its funds while exploring innovative projects like the Omni Processor that aim to make a real impact.
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Kremlin's Internet Crackdown
- To counter Navalny's "smart voting" system, the Kremlin intensified its crackdown on the internet, including blocking websites and pressuring tech companies like Google and Apple.
- These companies ultimately removed Navalny's voting app under threat of arrests and fines.
Impact on Putin's Legitimacy
- Despite United Russia's majority, the election results' perceived illegitimacy will impact the ruling party and Putin's authority.
- Growing public dissatisfaction and the rise of the Communist Party as a true opposition force further challenge the Kremlin's control.
Gates Foundation Scrutiny
- The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, a dominant force in public health philanthropy, faces increasing scrutiny regarding its spending effectiveness.
- Despite its substantial contributions, questions arise about its impact and potential areas for improvement.