https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-15047823
https://news.northeastern.edu/2024/03/21/vladimir-putin-russian-leader/
Vladimir Putin’s leadership in Russia exhibits clear authoritarian characteristics that align with the definition of a modern dictator. Although Russia holds elections, independent observers such as the OSCE have repeatedly concluded that they are neither free nor fair, as opposition candidates are often jailed, exiled, or disqualified. In 2020, Putin amended the Russian Constitution to allow himself to remain in power until 2036, effectively removing meaningful term limits. While independent media outlets are silenced or labeled as “foreign agents.” Civil liberties, including freedom of speech, assembly, and press, are heavily restricted, and organizations like Freedom House classify Russia as “Not Free.” Political scientists typically define a dictator as a leader who centralizes power and eliminates real opposition. By these standards, Putin’s rule clearly reflects an authoritarian system, even though it retains some superficial democratic elements.
