Daily Archives: June 11, 2007

I see that Kasparov held another rally in Moscow. Nothing extraordinary seemed to have happened. Kasparov addressed the crowd with his usual “we need a different Russia” message. The crowd of 2000 chanted their usual slogans–”Russia without Putin!” Yawn.

It also seems that the Russian police have learned something. According to the report in the LA Times, “Monday’s atmosphere was less tense as the demonstration got under way, with the square surrounded by troops without helmets or visible batons, instead of helmeted riot police.” And the dwindling attendance also seems to be taking a toll. Kasparov addressed it directly saying, “It is not important how many people decided to come today. We are concerned about our future, about the future of Russia.” Sorry Garry but given the nature of your “movement” numbers kinda are important. Since you aren’t part of the electoral ..read more

It appears that another Soviet practice is gaining revival in Russia. According to the Baltimore Sun, people who haven’t paid their utility bills, have amassed debts, spread garbage and pollution, and other violators of community norms are getting their names publicly displayed on billboards outside government buildings. The board outside the Mamonovo city administration displays the names of 50 residents. For example, “A recent posting showed someone with the surname Miziryak owing 22,519 rubles, about $873, in unpaid utility bills; and a woman named Gurkina with a debt of about $1,500.” Offenders are always given a chance to pay their debts explains Mamonov mayor Oleg Shlyk. But if they don’t within a 30 day period their names and sometimes even their pictures are added to the board.

Public shaming is an effective form of social control says Shlyk. “It has ..read more