Electoral integrity and support for democracy in Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine
Date
2015
Authors
White, Stephen
McAllister, Ian
Journal Title
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Volume Title
Publisher
Taylor & Francis (Routledge)
Abstract
The expansion of democracy following the collapse of communism in 1989–1990
led many to believe that democratic institutions would rapidly take root. However, over the
past decade, electoral malpractice has become widespread, casting doubt on democratic consolidation.
This paper examines the causes and consequences of weak electoral integrity in
Belarus, Russia, and the Ukraine. Using a series of opinion surveys conducted since 2000,
we show that public perceptions of electoral unfairness have their roots in seeing widespread
corruption among public officials. By contrast, viewing elections as fair correlates with
support for the incumbent government, and in watching television, the latter showing the
importance to the regimes of control of the mass media. In turn, views about electoral integrity
have a significant impact on satisfaction with democracy, especially in Belarus. The results
suggest that only root and branch reform in the post-communist societies will substantially
improve public perceptions of electoral integrity.
Description
Keywords
electoral malpractice, collapse of communism, weak electoral integrity, Belarus, Russia, Ukraine, corruption, public officials, control, mass media, democracy, television
Citation
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Source
Journal of Elections, Public Opinion and Parties
Type
Journal article
Book Title
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Access Statement
Open Access