The Russian constitution gives a far-reaching power to the president. This is necessary to rule such a big country like Russia especially during difficult times of transition. But the power is often abused at the expense of human rights, democracy and equal opportunities in political competition. The OSCE considered the elections to the Duma in December 2003 as “free, but not fair”.

Russian have to pay bribes for many things: access to medical care or education, right to practise a commercial activity, etc.

 

Russian institutions

Governance, State and public services

Infrastructures in Russia are satisfactory except roads. Government bureaucracy and poorly performing rule of law affect establishing business in Russia.

 

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The Russian political and legal environment