Network Mobilization and the Origins of the Putin Coalition

Abstract

How the Putin coalition rose to dominance remains a contested question. Theories of mobilization argue that organizational networks are important to the founding and success of political coalitions. Comparison of the organizational networks of rival coalitions in the city of Tambov provides insights into their origins and how they mobilize supporters. The Putin coalition drew on previously existing political structures that had been gaining strength during the Yeltsin years. This fledgling coalition enjoyed support from rank-and-file members of civic organizations, while its rivals founded top-heavy civic organizations that lacked substantial support from below.