Paulina Holbreich

Russian “Teddy Bears”

Wednesday, March 12th, 2008 | Humour & Stuff | 2 Comments

The popular symbol for Russia is the “Russian Bear”, and at the same time it`s the symbol of the ruling party in Russia “Edinaja Rossija” which won with an “overwhelming majority” at the last presidential elections. President Putin`s successor is Zarewich (the Zar`s son) Dimitrij Medwedew (engl. : bear).

Change of scenery:

Some years ago in the west-Siberian city Omsk a political movement for children “Medwezhata Rossii” (Russians teddy-bears), initiated by Putin`s “Edinaja Rossija”, was born. Children from the age of 7 can join this political organisation (and they really do)!!! The ceremony takes place right after the school enrollment in a couple of elementary schools in Omsk and vicinity. First the older “Teddy Bears” (who are in the 4th already) make a speech about their party, then the little ones perform a dance with party flags, accompanied by the song “In the knowledge is the power-as the “Edinaja Rossija” says! ” (rhymes in Russian : Ведь в знании — наша сила, как говорит «Единая Россия»). Closing the ceremony the hymn of the Russian Federation is played. The number of party members steadily increased in the last two years.

Is it destiny that about three years after the formation of the children organisation “Medwezhata Rossii” the next president`s name is Medwedew?!!! It`s crazy, isn`t it?? Did they actually know it? Anyway, the party office “Edinaja Rossija” in Omsk calls it a GAME! Although any types of political GAMES are forbidden by law since 1991, no official monitoring authority makes sure that no rebirth of “Pioneers” or “Comsomol” takes place.

Tags: bear, Comsomol, Edinaja Rossija, elections, Medwedew, president, Putin, Russia