The Price of Old-School Putin

Putin's 23-year reign in Russia has spotlighted a unique blend of gender politics. Since the Ukraine invasion in February 2022, the world has witnessed how Putin's mix of traditional values and tough leadership style has reshaped the country's power dynamics. Let's dive into how this plays a role in Russia's political setup. Putin's political approach favors male domination in Russian politics, media, and state affairs. The President's supporters are mostly men, creating an image of strength and dominance. He's often portraying himself as a tough leader to gain control over political enemies, making them seem weak in comparison. The men around him are powerful groups like his personal guard and private military companies. These groups are crucial to his rule, emphasizing a male-centric approach to power. This is not a new trajectory in politics. Over time, there have been signs that should have warned people about this kind of leadership. It's important to ask why those signs weren't enough. What could have been done differently? Well, the men in power aren't the only ones shaping this new path. A large number of female deputies, known for their tough stance, play a key role in supporting the President's rule. They shape the public's views. These women, dubbed "Baba Commissars, " present a worldview of constant threats. They support the traditional idea of women, taking care of the home, while men manage the political scene. This has led to a powerful, yet flawed, leadership structure. The Russian Parliament has faced a lot of criticism due to its strong emphasis on male dominance, fueling the existing issues. The leadership style has also shaped daily life in Russia. This is a result of the President's rule and his supporters, who've reshaped the country's gender dynamics in their quest for dominance. Critics and observers have highlighted that this leadership style has led to a decline in democracy. The political and social rules have been reshaped. This has led to a lot of destruction and conflict, like the Ukraine war. Russia's approach to politics has been successful, but it comes at a high cost. This includes a war that has led to a lot of destruction and affected many lives. This is a chance for people to understand the consequences of such leadership. This leadership style is not new in world politics. It has often led to similar conflicts. For those in power, it's important to understand that their rule can have real-world consequences. Future generations in Russia will have to grapple with these decisions and live with the consequences. This is a continuous cycle of power that needs to be broken. It's a chance for people to learn the importance of a balanced political system and the role of gender in shaping politics.