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Popular, competitive elections are a component of the democratic process, but they alone do not constitute a democracy. The first somewhat competitive election in the Soviet Union in 1989 marked the beginning of a trend toward political liberalization & democracy. Since then the Russians have voted for their chosen candidates many times, although only a small percentage of the adult population participates. The elections, on all levels, have been held as prescribed by law, though the first founding election for a new political system under a new constitution did not take place until December 1993. The campaigns & outcomes of the Gorbachev, Yeltsin, & (the first) Putin elections, & the corresponding parliamentary elections, are described. Under Putin, the elections still perform a quasi-democratic function, but they are now controlled by state institutions that have the ability to falsify the outcomes in favor of Putin-supported incumbents. J. Stanton

Discusses the changes in electoral decision procedures, namely, non-party elections, & the possibilities for enhanced citizen participation in the political process. Referendums & other non-party elections are explained with evaluation of their impact on citizenries' participation & influence in democracies. 4 Tables, 1 Figure, 1 Appendix. L. Collins Leigh

The issue concerning whether holding political elections in post-conflict societies necessarily contributes to transitional states democratization is explored. Three factors that significantly influence democratization following political elections are identified: the timing of electoral contests; the design of elections; & the inclusion of political parties. It is contended that holding elections prematurely can threaten democratic sustainability, problematize efforts to coordinate local & national elections, & facilitate political actors illegal assumption of political authority. Questions concerning the administration of transitional electoral contests & whether the electoral system should be based upon proportional representation or centripetal principles, particularly in ethnically diverse societies, are then addressed. Several suggestions for avoiding the formation of polarized political parties are subsequently offered, eg, regulations promoting the composition cross-ethnic & cross-regional political parties should be established & parties can be forced to submit multi-ethnic candidate lists. J. W. Parker