The result of the presidential elections might seem to indicate a further step forward for Yeltsin. But what are the real perspectives? Where the elections rigged? What would be the consecuences of Yeltsin's election promises?
This article by Ted Grant describes the wave of industrial unrest which shocked Russia during Autumn and Winter 1996, including a national day of protest called by the Federation of Independent Unions of Russia. Whether or not this wave of strikes signifies the start of a generalised movement or just a warning shot, we do not know yet. But it is clear answer to all the faint-hearts and sceptics who had written-off the Russian working class.
