The Neo-Soviet Model of the Media

This article traces the genesis of a neo-Soviet model of the mass media. Through an examination of the Russian media in the post-Soviet era as well as a review of media performance during elections in the region, the article concludes that the Russian media now operate in a ‘neo-Soviet’ fashion. Factors in this media model include a rejection of balance or objectivity; flaws in media law; self-censorship; government interference and harassment of media outlets; the lack of journalistic professionalism; and an atmosphere of violence against journalists. Furthermore, there are continuities in audience reception from the Soviet to the neo-Soviet model.