In a recent survey of the North Caucasus region, a small percentage – 3% – identified Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin as an ideal regional leader. The poll, conducted by the Russian Field research centre, examined perceptions of leadership within the North Caucasus Federal District, encompassing regions like Daghestan, Chechnya, and North Ossetia. Interestingly, alongside historical figures, respondents also cited fictional characters such as the Hulk, the T-800 from Terminator, and Rambo as positive role models for an “ideal leader.”
The survey involved 2,100 respondents and revealed that 61% positively assessed the performances of their regional leaders.
Ramzan Kadyrov, the Chechen Head, received the highest positive rating, with only 3% expressing negative opinions. Conversely, North Ossetia displayed the lowest level of satisfaction, with 40% expressing dissatisfaction with Sergei Menyailyo’s leadership. A key finding highlighted the importance of caring for ordinary people, cited by 42% of respondents, particularly in Ingushetia, Chechnya, and North Ossetia.
Integrity and a strong character were also valued, though to a lesser extent. Notably, experience in the full-scale invasion of Ukraine garnered only 6% of the vote. Local identity played a significant role, with 51% of respondents believing the regional head should originate from their own republic, a sentiment particularly strong in Ingushetia (68%) and Chechnya (66%).
Karachay-Cherkessia displayed the lowest acceptance of a leader from another region at 39%. Religious identity presented mixed responses, with approximately 45% favoring secular leadership, while 37% expressed a need for a more religious leader. Age also influenced opinions, with younger respondents (18-29) more likely to prioritize religiosity.
Despite the survey, most respondents struggled to name a specific ideal leader (67%), offering abstract descriptions instead. Joseph stalin was cited by 3% of respondents, with a higher percentage – 7% – in North Ossetia and 4% in Dagestan. Fictional characters like the T-800 and Rambo were also mentioned by respondents in Chechnya and Ingushetia.
A significant majority (78%) expressed pride in being Russian citizens. Adam Kadyrov’s potential successor role is currently under scrutiny following a recent road accident.
Topics: #stalin #north #named
