The Role of Middle Class in Moscow Protests between 2011 and 2013

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

1.1. Research Problem

1.2. Salience and novelty

1.3. Questions:

1.4. Objectives:

1.5. Hypothesis

1.6. Research design and research method

1.7. Literature review

2. Theory and Method

2.1. Qualitative Research Method

2.2. Theoretical Framework

2.3. Methodology

2.4. Theoretical approaches towards social movements studies

2.5. Middle Class Definition

3. Research Analysis

3.1. Description of protests in Moscow, and the reasons of the failure

3.2. The Reflection of Economic Crisis in the Mood of Russian Middle Class and Transformation into Political Crisis

Research Objectives & Core Themes

This thesis examines the intersection of the Moscow protest movement (2011–2013) and the emergence of the Russian middle class. It aims to determine whether the financial crisis of 2008–2010 served as the primary catalyst for the middle class to join political protests against electoral fraud, rather than purely political motivations.

• The causal role of the 2008–2010 economic crisis in social discontent.
• Defining and analyzing the socio-economic status of the Russian middle class.
• Comparing political activist viewpoints with broader public sentiment regarding economic stability.
• Evaluating the shift from economic concerns to political demands during the protests.
• Analyzing the factors contributing to the eventual decline of the protest movement.

Excerpt from the Book

Summary of Chapters

1. Introduction: Outlines the rise of Vladimir Putin, the emergence of mass protests in 2011 following disputed parliamentary elections, and the identification of a new middle class as a key protest contingent.

2. Theory and Method: Discusses the qualitative case-study research design, the definition of the middle class, and theoretical frameworks, including the concept of relative deprivation, to explain social movements.

3. Research Analysis: Investigates the timeline of the Moscow protests, the transition from economic discontent to political opposition, and the impact of the global financial crisis on the Russian middle class.

Keywords

Russia, Middle Class, Protests, Moscow, 2011-2013, Financial Crisis, Economic Policy, Living Standards, Political Opposition, Democracy, Corruption, Social Movements, Qualitative Research, Regime Legitimacy, Public Opinion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the core focus of this master thesis?

The research analyzes the role of the Russian middle class in the Moscow protests between 2011 and 2013, specifically investigating whether economic factors were the primary driver for their participation.

What are the primary themes discussed in this work?

The work focuses on the intersection of the 2008–2010 financial crisis, the socio-economic status of the Russian middle class, and their shift toward political activism in the face of perceived government inefficiency.

What is the main research hypothesis?

The author hypothesizes that the middle class's accession to the protests in 2011–2013 was motivated more by the economic situation resulting from the 2008–2010 financial crisis than by purely political engagement.

Which research methodology does the author employ?

The study utilizes a qualitative case-study approach, incorporating statistical data from the Levada Centre, surveys by Sasha de Vogel, and original interviews with protest participants.

What topics are covered in the main body?

The main body examines the timeline of the protests, the definition and characteristics of the Russian middle class, the correlation between economic crisis and political mood, and the influence of systemic issues like corruption.

Which keywords best describe the research?

Key terms include Russia, middle class, protests, financial crisis, corruption, political opposition, democracy, and public opinion.

How does the author define the "middle class" in the Russian context?

The author defines it as a social group with sustainable income capable of satisfying a wide range of social and material needs, often characterized by higher education, employment in the private sector, and ownership of real estate or a mid-range car.

Why does the author argue that the protests eventually failed?

The thesis argues that the opposition failed to reach its goals because it ignored socio-economic aspects, focusing too heavily on political criticism, and failed to maintain a cohesive strategy or mobilize the broader urban middle class over the long term.

What specific economic impacts did the 2008 crisis have on the middle class?

The crisis ruined previous economic achievements, led to ruble depreciation, and increased uncertainty regarding the government's ability to protect the standards of living that the middle class had grown accustomed to.