Ein Blick auf die russische Rechtskultur

Abstract

We can observe a growing misunderstanding between the West and Russia. The transformation of the Russian legal system has come to a standstill; clearly different values are emerging. The Russian legal culture has presumably been underestimated as the cause of this development. However, it can provide important explanations for current developments. The history of Russian law may elucidate many differences, which lead to the fact that the will to observe the law is much less pronounced in Russia than in Germany, for example. This legal nihilism weakens the rule of law. Fragile institutions are becoming instruments in the hands of strong players. Weak participants of legal relations find it difficult to enforce their rights. The ideas of compromise, control and fair play suffer. At the same time, it is obvious that legal culture is changing only slowly. The focus of the legal dialogue must therefore be placed more on mutual understanding and cooperation between the legal staff. The previous concentration on the creation of new laws has been historically understandable, but has had limited success. It should be reconsidered.