Russian church will become more politicised

Subject

The Orthodox Church and Russian politics.

Significance

As the Russian government prepares for September parliamentary elections, it can count on staunch support from the Orthodox Church. The clerical leadership is vocally supportive of President Vladimir Putin, and shares his vision of a separate, conservative Russia. In turn, the church benefits from state beneficence and welcomes Putin's attacks on 'Western' civil liberties.

Impacts

• The church's influence may dilute the appeal of the Communist Party, with overlapping demographics.
• Church establishment ties to Putin will undermine its credibility among liberal-minded Russians, and some clerics too.
• Amid economic hardship, church leaders will preach such non-materialistic values as patriotism and traditional family attitudes.