GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE POST-SOVIET SPACE POLITICAL REGIMES AND FEATURES OF THEIR FORMATION

Abstract

The main characteristics and features of the political regimes of the post-Soviet Baltic states, Ukraine, Russia and Georgia are considered and determined in the context of their transformation after the collapse of the USSR. The focus is on different ways of democratization in these countries, which were reflected in constitutional changes, ideological narratives, and foreign policy. The hybridity of political regimes in the transition period, when the political and economic modernization of breeds with the tasks of preservation and development of national identity took place, is explained. The multi-vector nature of political changes in post-Soviet countries is considered, which was manifested in different results of reform efforts - from democratization to authoritarianization, caused by the reaction to internal challenges and the need to adapt to international norms. Certain remnants of Sovietism and bureaucratic elements that inhibit the process of transformation and democratization are analyzed, which allows them to be labeled as neo-patrimonial: centralization of power, dominance of one party in the management of the state or a narrow group of persons, which negatively affects the formation and development of civil society and, in general, the process democratization.  Two tables have been compiled, which trace the evolution of constitutions, economy, ideology and political systems in post-Soviet countries and the evolution of political regimes in post-Soviet countries, taking into account the influence of international organizations. The determined specificity of the Ukrainian political system shows certain differences from other post-Soviet countries.