NCJ Number
147161
Journal
Police Studies Volume: 16 Issue: 4 Dated: (Winter 1993) Pages: 124-128
Date Published
1993
Length
5 pages
Annotation
The internal and external problems facing the militia of Russia, the largest and wealthies of the former Soviet republics, as a result of the social and economic upheaval since the breakup of the Soviet Union, are addressed.
Abstract
In this paper, a brief history is provided of the Soviet militia, which was created in 1917 to perform the traditional police function of maintaining social order and to assist the new socialist government by serving as agents of political control as well. The authors identify three central challenges for the Russian militia: confronting internal problems, coordinating law enforcement activities and confronting rising crime rates. Among the specific issues discussed are staffing shortages, inadequate salaries, the need for professional law enforcement training and equipment, police corruption, the rise of organized crime. Complicating matters are the country's severe shortage of funds to improve the militia and political instability. Some recommendations for reforms are offered.