A large majority of Russians prefer security over freedom when it comes to the role the government should play in their lives, a recent public opinion poll found.
According to a Levada Center poll published Wednesday, 83 percent of respondents believe the state should take care of its citizens compared to only 9 percent who believe people should solve their own problems.
On the topic of the current political situation in Russia, 60 percent of those polled said there was enough freedom in Russia, while 17 percent added liberties should be curtailed further.
A small majority, 55 percent, said preserving law and order is more important for Russia today than human rights, while 38 percent of respondents had the opposite view.
When asked what political system they preferred, 56 percent said Russia should be a democracy but 38 percent said it should be a democratic system based on national traditions and the unique character of the country.
The poll, conducted between Aug. 23 and Aug. 26, questioned 1,601 respondents in 130 cities across Russia and contained a 3.4 percent margin of error.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
