Russian journalists' exile and work abroad

Roman Badanine and Mikhaïl Roubine, prominent Russian investigative journalists, have published the French translation of their book Le Tsar en personne with Les Arènes. The book is an 800-page historical analysis of Vladimir Putin's rule, covering the decline and collapse of the Soviet Union and drawing on their investigations into Russian political and economic elites.

State persecution of journalists

The Russian state has labeled Badanine, Roubine, and their media outlets—including the investigative website Proekt—as "agents of foreign states" and "undesirable organizations." The authors now work from the United States, where the FSB has continued to threaten them despite their exile.

Origins of investigative journalism in Russia

Badanine's career began after the bombings in Russian residential buildings in August-September 1999, which he found suspicious. He shifted from academia to journalism, recognizing the importance of investigative reporting in Russia. A key moment was uncovering Sergei Kolesnikov's revelations about Putin's secret palace in Gelendzhik, funded by Russian oligarchs, which led Badanine to establish investigative departments in media outlets before facing criminal charges in 2017.

Methods used in Russian investigative journalism

Russian journalists rely heavily on telephone interviews and data leaks, as the state centralizes information. Accessing the Russian land registry (Rosreestr) has been a valuable investigative tool. However, the method of "door-stepping," where journalists witness events firsthand, is less feasible due to their status as foreign agents and the fear prevalent in Russia.

Sources and challenges in the book

The book includes numerous sources, many of whom remain unnamed due to the risks they face. The authors highlight the importance of data leaks in verifying information and the role of anonymous sources in maintaining credibility, despite the dangers investigative journalism poses in Russia.

Analysis of Putin's rule and ideology

The book argues that Putin's rule lacks a coherent ideology, pointing out the gap between his public statements and his actions. It suggests that the regime's rhetoric serves as a backdrop to personal gain and the desire to maintain power, analyzing the war in Ukraine as a way for Putin to cleanse his past and present himself as a unifier.

Historical context and recent events

The book examines the years 1980-1990, which the authors consider essential for understanding current events in Russia. It also provides context for recent developments, such as the case of Alicher Ousmanov, who was recently released from sanctions, emphasizing the importance of remembering political history and preserving collective memory.

Global influence of Russian political methods

In the context of French political debates, the book highlights Putin's methods of testing people, illustrated by the case of Prince Albert of Monaco and a proposed domain in the French Alps in exchange for Monaco's support of the Sochi Olympics. This underscores the global reach of authoritarian tactics and the need for political leaders to recognize and address such strategies.