The Constitution of the Russian Federation: A Contextual Analysis

Description

As reviews of the first edition attest, this book gives a unique critical and contextual insight into the Constitution of one of the world’s most significant countries. Its first edition was published in 2011, when Dmitrii Medvedev was Russia’s President. Since then there was a regime change in 2012 as Vladimir Putin returned to the presidency, and, significantly, dramatic shifts in constitutionality as Russia pursues a ‘return to traditional values’. The book explores the Constitution’s evolution over its nearly 30 years’ existence, including the significant amendments of 2020. This second edition situates these important changes in the context of Russia’s historical and legal development, as Putin continues to dominate the political scene. It also looks at broader constitutional questions on the interrelation between the main State agencies, the role of the courts, human rights and their enforcement. Preface Acknowledgements Contents Table of Legislation Table of Conventions, Treaties, etc Documents from the Communist Party of the Soviet Union 1. Introduction I. Whose Constitutionality? II. Overview of Russia III. The Cultural Approach to Law IV. Conclusion Further Reading 2. Historical Background to the 1993 Constitution I. Introduction II. Before the Empire III. The Tsar as Emperor IV. End of Empire and Establishing Soviet Power V. Perestroika: A Time of Change VI. The USSR Disintegrates VII. Russian Developments VIII. Conclusion Further Reading 3. Genesis and Overview of the 1993 Constitution of the Russian Federation:
The Constitution’s Creation and General Schema I. Introduction II. The Genesis of the 1993 Constitution III. Overview of the Contents of the Constitution IV. Conclusion Further Reading 4. The President I. Introduction II. The First Russian Presidency III. The Presidency Under The 1993 Constitution IV. Presidential Powers V. Accountability VI. Conclusion Further Reading 5. The Legislature Legislation But Ineffective Representation? I. Introduction II. Establishing A Multi-Party Legislature III. Law-Making by the Federal Assembly IV. The Federal Assembly's Other Powers V. Reform Proposals VI. Conclusion Further Reading 6. The Government and Other Agencies I. Introduction II. Establishing the Government III. Government Accountability IV. Regional Government V. Institutions Supporting Governance VI. Conclusion Further Reading 7. Courts and Judges I. Introduction II. Russia's Courts III. Judicial Independence IV. Conclusion Further Reading 8. The Treatment of Rights I. Introduction II. Establishing Human Rights III. Russians' Rights IV. Rights Enforcement V. Conclusion Further Reading 9. Conclusion Index