Autonomy in the Russian Federation: Theory and Practice

Examines autonomy-related organizational & legal institutions in the Russian Federation, noting that the Soviet legacy behind their geographically based structure makes it much more difficult to confront the issue of nationality. A brief overview of ethnic & geographical divisions in the USSR & the Russian Federation is provided before addressing legislation related to the rights of ethnic minorities, highlighting a Feb 1993 draft bill, which although not yet passed, sheds some light on the issue. In addition, general pieces of Russian legislation that partly cover minority rights are considered, along with the Ministry of Nationalities & Regional Policy of the Russian Federation, some regional-level strategies for tackling ethnic minority status, & the legal status of small indigenous peoples. Legal protection of ethnic minorities is discussed as well as some solutions in place for the rehabilitation of peoples repressed during the Soviet era. Some attention is then given to the 1996 National Autonomy Act, viewing it as a break with the traditional Russian approach to the issue of interethnic relations. It is concluded that escaping the Soviet legacy will require some time & requires the continued establishment of the rule of law & civil society. J. Zendejas