Rosyjski kryzys konstytucyjny w latach 1991– –1993. Część 1: kontekst historyczny, personalny i gospodarczy

The article provides a nuanced analysis of the background of the Russian constitutional crisis of 1991–1993, examining it through historical, personal, and economic lenses. Arising from the collapse of the Soviet Union and the establishment of the Russian Federation, this conflict marked a pivotal moment in the formation of Russia’s political system. The authors delve into the intricate dynamics and conflicts between Boris Yeltsin’s presidential faction and the supporters of Ruslan Khasbulatov, the speaker of parliament, who embodied divergent visions for Russia’s political and social structures. The analysis underscores that the constitutional crisis was driven not only by political ambitions but also by profound ideological divides concerning the scope of both political and economic reforms. The authors highlight the worsening economic situation, addressing the contrasting approaches – ranking from Gaidar’s monetarist reforms to Khasbulatov’s protectionist stance – that ultimately fueled political and social radicalization. The study employs historical, comparative, and monographic analysis, utilizing primary sources from the press and the memoirs of individuals involved in the events. As part of a series on the development of Russia’s constitutional framework, this paper seeks to enrich academic discourse surrounding the challenges and repercussions of Russia’s political transformation in the early 1990s.