Study "Russia", a flashcard deck on FORKSAI.
THEORETICAL: How does the Russian presidential election system ensure a clear majority for the elected candidate?
The Russian presidential election system employs a two-ballot system. A candidate must secure 50% plus one vote to be elected. If no candidate achieves this in the first round, the two top vote-getters proceed to a run-off election to determine the winner.
DEFINITION: Define the primary responsibility of the Prime Minister and the cabinet in the Russian government.
The Prime Minister and the cabinet are primarily responsible for the day-to-day administration of the country. They supervise ministries that are not under the direct control of the president.
THEORETICAL: Explain the process by which the Russian President appoints the Prime Minister and the potential consequences if the State Duma repeatedly rejects the nomination.
The President appoints the Prime Minister with the approval of the State Duma. If the nominated Prime Minister is rejected twice by the Duma, the President is then required to call for fresh elections.
DEFINITION: Distinguish between the roles of the Federation Council and the State Duma within the Russian Parliament.
The Federation Council is the upper house, serving local interests and acting as a guarantor of the constitution, with powers to reject presidential appointments and declare war. The State Duma is the lower and more powerful house, with the ability to censure the Prime Minister and pass votes of no confidence.
THEORETICAL: How does the Russian President's power to issue decrees impact the legislative process or governance?
The President's power to issue decrees allows them to enact legally binding orders without direct parliamentary approval, providing a significant tool for direct executive action and influencing governance outside of traditional legislative channels.
DEFINITION: What is the significance of the Federal Constitutional Court in the Russian judicial system?
The Federal Constitutional Court is the highest court in Russia, consisting of 19 members. It has the power of judicial review, ensuring that laws and presidential decrees comply with the Constitution.
THEORETICAL: Describe the checks and balances related to the Prime Minister's position regarding the President and the Legislature in Russia.
The Prime Minister serves at the pleasure of the President but can be censured by the legislature. Continuous votes of no confidence from the State Duma can lead to the Prime Minister's dismissal by the President, illustrating a balance between executive appointment and legislative oversight.
DEFINITION: What was the primary characteristic of Nikita Khrushchev's leadership in Russia following Stalin's era?
Nikita Khrushchev's leadership was characterized by a period of de-Stalinization and relaxation. This included the removal of Stalin's body from Lenin's mausoleum and the publication of critical warnings against Stalin's rule.
THEORETICAL: How does the Federation Council's role as a 'guarantor of the constitution' manifest in its legislative duties?
As a guarantor of the constitution, the Federation Council reviews legislation from the Duma. If it rejects legislation, it sends it back to the Duma, requiring both houses to reach a compromise, thereby ensuring constitutional adherence and protecting local interests.
DEFINITION: What specific powers does the Russian President hold regarding defense, foreign affairs, and internal security?
The Russian President is in charge of defense, foreign affairs, interior, the FSB (Federal Security Service), and the KGB (historically, now its successor agencies), demonstrating comprehensive control over national security and international relations.