Political Loyalty Through Ideological Pressure in Post-Soviet Autocracies: Transformation of Mechanisms in the 21st Century

Abstract

This article examines the transformation of ideological control mechanisms in post-Soviet autocracies in the 21st century, with a particular focus on the Russian Federation. The aim of the research is to explore how ideological pressure, combined with repressive practices, is strategically employed by authoritarian regimes to cultivate political loyalty, suppress dissent, and reinforce regime stability. Special attention is given to the period following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, which acted as a catalyst for intensifying internal ideological discipline and expanding state repression.

Methodologically, the study is based on qualitative content analysis of political documents, official discourses, legal frameworks, and media narratives in the Russian Federation between 2022 and 2024. The research also applies elements of a comparative approach, taking into account ideological dynamics in other post-Soviet states. Particular emphasis is placed on the intersection of ideology, coercion, and public loyalty under authoritarian governance.

The key findings confirm the emergence of a new ideological paradigm in Russia based on so-called “traditional values.” This concept functions both as a political doctrine and a mechanism of social regulation. It is actively institutionalized through the education system, religion, state-controlled media, and selective criminal prosecution. Repressive actions targeting representatives of civil society — including bloggers, activists, and religious groups — are accompanied by the marginalization of alternative worldviews. This model of ideological pressure has also extended to the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, particularly the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions.

The conclusion highlights that ideological pressure in modern autocracies serves not only as a propaganda tool but also as an instrument of governance. It facilitates the suppression of political pluralism, legitimizes repressive measures, and sustains authoritarian stability. The findings emphasize the need for further interdisciplinary research into ideological engineering and the resilience of authoritarian regimes.