The transitional Russian political system has long been a subject of scholarly discussion, but little has been published on the process of democratization in some particular regions. By examining the importance of sovereignty, federalism, and democratic order, this innovative new book argues convincingly that Russia will never be able to create a viable democracy as long as authoritarian regimes are able to flourish in those regions. The main themes covered are democratization at the regional level, and the problems faced by the federal states in forging viable democratic institutions in what is now a highly asymmetrical Federation.