New Duma, old faces: parliamentarians without renewal and public apathy

A new convocation of parliament will open in the fall of 2023. Formally, the elections were held, new parties participated - but the result was expected: the majority of mandates again went to supporters of the government. Changes in the composition are minimal. Young faces, new parties remained in the shadow of larger players, the former elite retained their positions. For analysts, this parliament has become a symbol of stagnation: renewal is declared, but in fact it maintains the previous structure. Accordingly, the chances for major reforms, for rethinking the political course, for democratic shifts look illusory. Society met the new Duma without expectations: protests were weak, apathy was high. Many citizens believe that any hopes for change are empty. September 2023 showed: even after the promise of a “new”, “youth” parliament, everything inside remains the same. The political scenario is repeating itself, and popular faith in change is fading.