The All-Russia People's Front (ONF) is a coalition of political parties and nongovernmental organizations in Russia that was founded by Vladimir Putin in May 2011. The coalition included United Russia and allied parties (Patriots of Russia, Agrarian Party of Russia, Progressive Socialist Party of Ukraine, et. al.), business associations, labor unions, and youths', women's, and veterans' organizations. The front supported nationalism, conservatism, Putin's rule in the country, a strong central government, state capitalism, authoritarianism, and a combative stance towards the European Union.
The ONF was created to consolidate support for Vladimir Putin, particularly as a response to growing public dissatisfaction with political and economic conditions in Russia. It aimed to present a united front that would bolster the legitimacy of his administration during a time of increasing opposition. The movement seeks to engage civil society and foster grassroots participation in politics. By encouraging citizens to express their concerns and suggestions, the ONF positions itself as a mediator between the government and the populace. The ONF plays a significant role in elections, helping to mobilize voters and support candidates aligned with Putin’s policies. It serves as a mechanism for channeling public support into electoral success for the ruling party, United Russia.
The ONF promotes a strong sense of national identity and pride. It emphasizes the importance of Russian sovereignty and the need to protect the country’s interests against external threats, positioning itself as a defender of Russian values. The movement advocates for social justice, seeking to address issues such as poverty, inequality, and access to public services. It frames these issues within the context of patriotic duty, arguing that a strong nation must take care of its citizens. The ONF supports economic modernization and development, with an emphasis on self-sufficiency and innovation. It aligns itself with state-led economic initiatives and projects that are seen as beneficial for national growth. The movement encourages citizen participation in governance and public life. It promotes the idea that ordinary Russians should have a voice in shaping policies that affect their lives, albeit within a framework that aligns with the state’s goals.
The ONF often invokes Soviet-era terminology and symbols to resonate with older generations and to evoke a sense of nostalgia for the perceived stability and strength of the Soviet state. This includes references to collective achievement and national pride associated with the USSR. The name "People's Front" itself echoes historical movements like the People's Front of the 1930s, which was a coalition of leftist organizations in the Soviet Union. This nomenclature is strategically used to create a sense of continuity with the past and to legitimize contemporary political goals. The ONF frames its initiatives within a historical narrative that emphasizes Russia’s resilience and strength. It often highlights the accomplishments of the Soviet era, particularly in industrialization and victory in World War II, to promote current state policies as a continuation of Russia’s historical mission. By leveraging Soviet history, the ONF seeks to foster a collective identity that resonates with many Russians, reinforcing the idea that the current government is a protector of the nation’s heritage and values. This approach aims to unite citizens under a shared historical narrative that emphasizes pride and patriotism.
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