A01=David J. Cox
and Government: Comparative Politics
Author_David J. Cox
Category=JKSW1
Category=JP
Category=JWCS
eq_bestseller
eq_isMigrated=1
eq_nobargain
eq_non-fiction
eq_society-politics
Law
Politics
Product details
- ISBN 9780275966881
- Weight: 454g
- Dimensions: 156 x 235mm
- Publication Date: 30 Oct 2000
- Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc
- Publication City/Country: US
- Product Form: Hardback
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The evolution of elite personal protection units—also known as close protection units—within the former Soviet Union is one of the least examined, yet crucial political developments in this region. Due to the often-violent environment in which the political leaders of this region now operate, the need for these special military units is obvious. This study examines the similarities between these the current units and those of the Soviet past and finds that, in spite of the highly unstable nature of politics in post-communist Russia, these elite units have not intervened to the degree that many might have expected. They have, however, played a significant political role throughout the region.
These close protection forces may very well determine the success or failure of the democratization process now underway. On the other hand, establishing a Praetorian Guard within the very walls of the Kremlin may in itself portend an end to democracy. Ultimately, a complete understanding of future politics in the former Soviet Union is impossible without acknowledging the role that these modern Praetorians play in the civil-military balance.
DAVID COX was Adjunct Professor of Political Science at The George Washington University./e
