As you learned in this module, Vladimir Putin's first priority as Russian president was to bring prosperity, order and stability to Russia. From what you read / watched in this module, explain whether Putin was successful in stabilizing the situation in Russia. And, if he has indeed set Russia on the path of progress (at least economic?), why are there so many opponents and critics of his regime? (Make sure to back up your answers with facts and data from the module's materials).

Vladimir Putin - " Vladimir Putin served as president of Russia from 2000 to 2008, and was re-elected to the presidency in 2012. And again in the year 2018 he was again re-elected as the president of Russia. As he previously served as Russia's prime minister."

"Gref Program" was launched and approved by the government in 2000 during Putin's first term, formally called the "Program for the Socio-Economic Development of the Russian Federation for the Period 2000-2010,"

During Putin's regime in the 10 years from 1999 to 2008, Russian GDP grew by 94% and per capita GDP doubled.

Explanation:

Gref Program:

In terms of economic policy, those 20 years fall into four distinct periods.

The "reform" years of his first term (1999-2003), the "statist" years of his second term (2004 - the first half of 2008), the world economic crisis and recovery (the second half of 2008 - 2013), And the war in Ukraine, Russia's growing isolation from the global economy, and stagnation (2014 - present).

Critics About Putin:

While his opponents think he leads by force, that he has taken away many people's freedom, and disagree with how he runs Russia and deals with world affairs.

Lost of freedom:

According to Opposition the Russian people have lost a lot of their freedom. As they accuse him of making the country less democratic and giving too much control and power to small groups of wealthy people. While some also say's that he has been in power for too long and now it is time for someone else to be in charge.

Unfair elections:

In March 2018, he won the Russian election making him president for another six years. One of the main people opposed to him in the election, Alexei Navalny, wasn't allowed to take part. As many believed that the elections held were not fair.

Alleged Interference in the U. S elections:

His government is been accused by many, as he had an alleged interference in the 2016 presidential campaign in the United States, which led to Donald Trump's win that year. As it is still considered as a hoax by many experts.

Putin Against Genders:

One issue that has proved particularly controversial is Putin's treatment of gay people. His government passed a law in 2013 banning the promotion of homosexuality to people under the age of 18.