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CNN Journalist Speaks Candidly About Russia at Luncheon
Dougherty, a Dunmore native, began by discussing the structure of Russia.
Russia has a lot of the trappings of a modern democracy. It looks like a democracy that you can understand and to some extent you can,” said Dougherty, who then explained that Russia refers to its democracy as either a sovereignty or a managed democracy. “Managed democracy is what a bunch of experts would say is an over-managed democracy.”
“Civil society to me is the key to everything and that’s still what they are trying to do, and it’s still not really there,” said Dougherty. She also discussed her impression of several well-known leaders in Russia.
In meeting former President and current Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, Doughtery was impressed by how well he handled a three-hour interview with several journalists. She characterized him as a calm, cool and collected man who was also sharp, canny and a person who would not necessarily stand out in a crowd. Current leader Dmitry Medvedev was described as a lawyer by trade who presented a possibility for change for the Russian people.
Other topics mentioned during the luncheon focused on Russia’s structure as a vertical power, its relationship with China, and the lack of trust between Russian civilians and those in power. She also discussed environmental changes the country has faced through the years.
In the future, Dougherty said she hopes to see more civic organizations and people banding together.“It’s a country I have a lot of affection for and a lot of hope for,” said Dougherty.
The Schemel Forum Luncheon Seminar Series will continue through April. For more information, contact Schemel Forum Director Sondra Myers at 941-4089 or myerss2@scranton.edu.
To register for programs, contact Kym Balthazar Fetsko, Schemel Forum Events Coordinator at 941-7816 or fetskok2@scranton.edu.
