Jun 25, 2020 - World

In Russia's constitutional referendum, Putin seeks 16 more years

Dave Lawler

In Putin’s Russia, the parade comes before the election. Photo: Sergey Pyatakov/Host Photo Agency via Getty

Russians began voting Thursday on the most significant package of constitutional changes since the fall of the Soviet Union.

Why it matters: The most significant of all is the clearing of President Vladimir Putin's term limits to allow him to remain in power until 2036.

Setting the scene: The referendum was postponed from April due to the pandemic and comes on the heels of a massive military parade to mark the anniversary of victory in World War II.

Voting will be spread over a week and include precautions to limit the spread of the virus.
The proposal would also enshrine social conservatism — "faith in god," opposition to gay marriage — into the constitution.
It would also give parliament new powers, including to appoint the prime minister, "while giving the president a greater say over the work of courts and prosecutors," per the WSJ.

Where things stand: Putin has been criticized for his hands-off approach to coronavirus, but his proposal is nonetheless expected to pass.

A recent Levada Center poll shows 44% in favor and 32% opposed — but 55% of those certain to turn out plan to vote in favor.

Opposition leaders including Alexei Navalny are calling for a boycott. The Kremlin is offering incentives to boost turnout.

What to watch: The Levada Center's tracking poll puts Putin's approval rating at 59%, his lowest mark since Sep. 1999, 3 months before he became president.

Putin has kept power since then through a blend of skill and brutality. He may need more of both to hold onto it for 16 more years.

Add Axios on Google

In Russia's constitutional referendum, Putin seeks 16 more years

What to read next