From the Soviet Union to Russia: Changing Labor Conditions

Russia\u27s government began endorsing the principles of free-market capitalism in late 1991. The switch implied a realization of the inherent difficulties that the previous communist system presented for the economic well-being of the nation. Increasingly, the new economic ideology, which still faces strong opposition from conservative elements in the government, is being implemented throughout the country by the workers themselves. Ironically, the 1917 communist revolution for the proletariat is being carried out according to the actual wishes of the workers almost seventy-five years later. To illuminate the effects of this revolution, Russia\u27s economic conditions before the breakdown of the Soviet system will be contrasted with the present movement unfurling. Specifically the issues of labor unions, unemployment, and worker motivation will be examined