Proceedings of Southwest State University. Series: History and Law
Peer-reviewed journal "Proceedings of Southwest State University. Series: History and Law"
Юго-Западный государственный университет
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Justice in the system of legal coordinates: theoretical and methodological analysis
Relevance. Justice is a fundamental category of legal theory, which acts as a general legal principle, value, and goal of legal regulation. In the context of value pluralism and the digital transformation of the legal system, there is a need for a theoretical and methodological rethinking of its essence and mechanisms of implementation in lawmaking and law enforcement. The purpose of this study is to provide a theoretical and legal reinterpretation of the category of justice, including the identification of its essential characteristics, the systematization of existing doctrinal approaches, and the justification of the author's integrative model of its understanding in law. Research objectives: analysis of the historical and philosophical foundations of the doctrine of justice; systematization of doctrinal approaches to its understanding; disclosure of the content of the principle of justice, its specification in legislation and judicial practice; determination of the relationship between justice and legality, and its role in justice; formulation of the author's concept of justice in law. Methodology. The research methodology includes a complex of general scientific and private scientific methods. The dialectical method allowed us to identify contradictions in the understanding of justice, the historical and legal method allowed us to trace its evolution, the formal legal method allowed us to analyze its normative consolidation, the comparative legal method allowed us to compare doctrinal approaches, and the hermeneutical method allowed us to interpret legal texts where justice is an evaluative category. Results. The historical and philosophical foundations of the doctrine of justice, which go back to the ancient distinction between commutative and distributive justice, have been identified. The main doctrinal approaches have been systematized: the axiological approach (justice as a value), the normative-legal approach (as a principle of law), and the post-classical approach (as a property of social representation). The content of the principle of justice, which is specified in legislation and judicial practice, has been revealed. The relationship between justice and legality, as well as its role as a criterion of justice, has been substantiated. The author has formulated an integrative model of justice that combines the normative-value, procedural-communicative, and subjective-motivational aspects. Conclusions. Justice in law is an integrative phenomenon that is not reducible to either formal legality or moral idea. In the context of value pluralism, procedural justice acts as a mechanism for achieving intersubjective consensus and legitimizing legal outcomes. The practical significance of the study lies in the potential application of its findings in lawmaking, law enforcement, and the educational process.
Participation of the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia in the contract system: civil and financial legal aspects
Relevance. The legislation of the Russian Federation stands on the way of comprehensive regulation of the participation of the Federal Penitentiary Service (FSIN of Russia) in social relations developing in the sphere of the contract system – the implementation of purchases in order to ensure state needs, manifested, directly, in connection with the implementation of functions and tasks of the penal system. In the legal support of the activities of the FSIN of Russia in the field of procurement, departmental orders acquire great importance. In this regard, it is relevant to consider the specifics of the sub-legal regulation of the activities of the FSIN of Russia within the framework of the contract system, to identify in it the dynamics of the ratio of norms of civil law and financial law orientation. The topic of the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia's participation in the contract system is also relevant due to the fact that the material resources it acquires are necessary to ensure the rights of convicts for committing crimes and to prevent violations of the guarantees established for them. The purpose of this study is to identify the relationship between civil and financial legal regulation in social relations that ensure the participation of the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia in the contract system. Objectives: to characterize the features of the content of legal regulation of the participation of the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia in the contract system, to show the significance of the norms of financial law for the material support of the participation of the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia in the contract system. Methodology. The study used the methods of dialectics, analysis and synthesis, abstraction, formal-legal, comparative-legal, technical-legal, system-structural, and logical methods. Results. In the course of the study, the features of the interaction of the norms of civil and financial law in the activities of the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia in the contract system were revealed. Conclusions. The participation of the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia in the contract system allows to solve the tasks set for the penal system with the support of interrelated civil and financial legal tools of procurement activities.
Taxation of economic activities related to the development or use of artificial intelligence and robotics
Relevance. The introduction of artificial intelligence and robotisation technologies determines the competitiveness of any country’s economy at the present stage and determines changes in the architecture of direct and indirect taxation of entities using these technologies. The search for a multi-level, differentiated and integrated model of fiscal policy towards persons developing or using AI and robotisation technologies will enable the development of this economic segment. The purpose of this study is to assess the current state of taxation of economic activities related to the development or use of AI and robotisation in domestic and foreign legal orders and to identify relevant regulation. Objectives: to identify the differences between artificial intelligence and a robot; to analyse expert assessments on the integration of AI and robotisation into the economies of Russia and foreign countries. Methodology. To achieve the stated objective, the author applied methods of scientific inquiry, namely analysis, synthesis, systemic-analytical, formal-logical and systemic-legal methods. Using these methods, the author carried out an analytical review of domestic and foreign legislation, determined the specific features of the legal relations under study, and proposed solutions to the identified legal problems. Results. The central conclusion is that fiscal policy with respect to economic activities involving AI and robotisation should be divided into: (1) supportive tax policy for persons engaged in the development and training of AI and robotisation; (2) conservative (or progressive) tax policy for persons carrying out activities using AI and robotisation. Conclusion. The study proposes legal constructs for a system of taxation of economic activities related to the development or use of artificial intelligence and robotisation.
Civil legal protection of intangible assets in the course of their utilisation in foreign jurisdictions
Relevance. The legalisation of transactions involving intangible benefits in the Russian legal order poses new challenges for the legislator, including those related to the development of a system of protection measures for rights violated in the course of the commercialisation of such benefits. These measures are not yet provided for by law, which creates a risk not only of infringement upon the intangible benefits of a citizen when they are used in civil transactions, but also of disregarding the citizen's property interests arising in this context. For this reason, it becomes relevant to study foreign experience, since both legislation and judicial practice of other countries are developing various approaches to solving this problem. The purpose of this article is to develop scientifically grounded approaches to improving the domestic civil law system of measures for the protection of intangible benefits, taking into account foreign experience in this field. Objectives to determine the current state of protection of intangible benefits in domestic and foreign legal orders; to formulate recommendations for the development of the Russian mechanism of civil law protection of intangible benefits in commercial transactions. Methodology. The author applied general scientific methods (analysis, synthesis, induction and deduction) as well as specific legal methods, including systemic analysis and comparative legal studies. Results. In foreign countries, measures provided for by other institutions of private law, including copyright law and consumer protection law, are used to protect intangible benefits violated in the course of their commercialisation. Furthermore, in order to safeguard the property interests of the citizen-right holder, the rules on unjust enrichment and on the recovery of income obtained from the unlawful use of that citizen's intangible benefits are applied by analogy. Conclusion. Drawing on foreign experience provides valuable legal tools and makes it possible, in the absence of special legal norms in domestic legislation on civil law protection of intangible benefits in the process of their use, to apply in national judicial practice the protection measures provided for by other institutions of private law.
Energy saving in apartment buildings: digital transformation and the adaptation of classical private law institutions
Relevance. The digital transformation of the housing and utilities sector conflicts with traditional private law institutions, the norms of which regulate property, management, and liability relations in apartment buildings. Purpose to identify the main problems in the field of private law regulation of relations arising in the field of energy conservation in apartment buildings in the context of digitalization, and to formulate approaches to improving the legal instruments for their resolution. Objectives: to evaluate the application of energy performance contracts in the housing sector; to identify risks to property owners' rights in the digital environment; to correlate public energy conservation standards with corporate decision-making procedures; to propose an adaptation of civil law doctrine and judicial practice. Methodology. The study is based on dialectical and systemic methods, a formal legal analysis of civil and housing legislation, and judicial practice. Results. It has been revealed that the classic management contract, as well as existing models of energy service contracts applied to apartment buildings, do not create economic incentives for the management organization to make long-term investments in energy efficiency. In the area ofdisputes over bringing to civil liability, new types of harm are emerging: technological, economic, harm to privacy. A critical problem of corporate governance has been identified: the current interpretation of Article 36 of the Housing Code of the Russian Federation requires the consent of 100% of owners for any, even targeted and improving, impact on common property, which hinders energy saving initiatives. Conclusions. The following are substantiated: (a) the need to legalize standard terms of energy service contracts for apartment buildings; (b) consideration of aggregated anonymized smart metering data as an integral part of technical documentation for apartment buildings, the right to use which should belong to the owners of the premises; (c) the need for the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation to develop criteria for delineating actions on the use of common property that require unanimity and a qualified majority, taking into account energy efficiency goals.
Civil law obligation as a condition for achieving a legal advantage
Relevance. The traditional doctrinal interpretation of civil law duty as a measure of proper behavior, secured by state coercion, does not fully reflect the realities of modern private law, built on the principles of autonomy of will and economic rationality. Ignoring the dispositive nature of the duty prevents understanding the motivation of the turnover participants. The purpose is to substantiate the concept that civil law duty is not an external burden, but a consciously chosen legal instrument to achieve legal and economic advantages. Objectives: to identify the disadvantages of the traditional approach to responsibilities; to reveal the relationship of responsibilities with the category of "advantage"; to investigate the manifestation of dispositivity in the content of responsibilities; to develop a typology of advantages acquired through the performance of duties. Methodology. The study was prepared using methods of analysis, description, generalization, formal legal, and systemic methods. Results. It is proved that the essence of a civil law obligation is inextricably linked with the acquisition of an advantage. The duty is proposed to be considered as an individual legal model of behavior, the adoption and execution of which is a rational action of the subject aimed at improving his legal or economic situation. The content of dispositivity is revealed as a property of the legal status of a subject, manifested in independence, freedom and independence in the acceptance and performance of duties. Conclusion. A new concept of understanding duty through the prism of acquired benefits is substantiated, which overcomes the one-sided view of duty as an onerous duty and fits it into the model of rational behavior in civil turnover. Unfair extraction of advantages without proper performance of duties is a perversion of the logic of private law interaction.
Setting fees for the submission of an executive document: a critical analysis of the draft law
Relevance. The article analyzes the draft law of the Ministry of Justice "On Amendments to certain Legislative Acts of the Russian Federation on the establishment of specifics of the presentation of enforcement documents on the recovery of overdue debts to the enforcement authorities of the Russian Federation", affecting the most important elements of enforcement proceedings and affecting the availability of judicial protection. Despite the pause in the promotion of the initiative, the likelihood of its resumption remains due to the need to increase revenues to the federal budget. In this regard, it is important to assess the validity of the proposed changes and their compliance with the current legislation. Purpose: to substantiate that the stated reduction in the burden on the FSSP is expected to be achieved by creating artificial barriers to the presentation of enforcement documents and the initiation of enforcement proceedings, which may lead to a violation of the rights of the parties; stimulating non-governmental debt settlement methods is critically evaluated. Objective. To identify inconsistencies and contradictions between the draft law and the norms of current legislation. To identify the possible consequences of the adoption of the draft law for the parties to the enforcement proceedings. To establish trends in the application of methods for non-governmental debt settlement. Methodology. The following methods of scientific knowledge were used in the study: the formal legal method, the systematic approach, the comparative legal method, the method of legal modeling, the analysis of empirical data. Results. It has been established that the proposed provisions are introduced without proper reliance on statistical and analytical data, duplicate the existing obligations of the creditor at the pre-trial stages, create additional procedural and financial costs for the claimant, and also create legal uncertainty. The contradiction of the projected norms to the principle of procedural economy, as well as the risks of violating constitutional guarantees for the protection of the rights and legitimate interests of organizations and citizens, has been revealed. Conclusion. In the current version, the draft law is not able to achieve the declared goals without significantly limiting the rights of professional claimants. It is concluded that it is necessary to conceptually revise the provisions of the draft law in order to ensure their compliance with the current legislation of Russia.
Criminal practices against women disguised as romantic relationships. Part 2
The relevance. This article constitutes the second part of a study on the victimization of women in the digital space, where criminal acts are disguised as romantic relationships. While the first publication analyzed schemes of fraudulent deception (scams) – specifically virtual romances and marriage frauds – the present work shifts its focus to qualitatively different and more dangerous forms of unlawful activity against women. The purpos – to supplement criminological theory with a comprehensive typology of women who are victims of criminally punishable acts committed by means of «simulated love», thereby integrating previously studied victims of fraudulent deception with new categories of victims. Objectives: to identify and systematize criminal scenarios conducted under the guise of a "digital romance", and on this basis, to develop a classification of female victims that accounts for the new categories introduced in the second part of the article. Methodology. The study employs an interdisciplinary approach, combining formal-legal, formal-logical, and socio-psychological analytical methods. The results. An original classification of female victims of "romantic" deception is proposed, incorporating the new categories examined in the present work. For each category, the criminal strategies and psychological mechanisms are described, demonstrating how the illusion of an "online romance" is gradually transformed into a means of committing a criminal offense, as well as the persistent patterns of victimhood. Conclusion. An original classification of female victims of "romantic" deception is proposed, incorporating the new categories examined in the present work. For each category, the criminal strategies and psychological mechanisms are described, demonstrating how the illusion of an "online romance" is gradually transformed into a means of committing a criminal offense, as well as the persistent patterns of victimhood.
Resocialization of convicts as a way to reduce the rate of recidivism
Relevance. The high and stable proportion of previously convicted persons among those committing new offenses, amid the overall decline in recorded crime, makes the issue of effective resocialization of convicts central to criminal justice and public security. Resocialization is viewed as a response to the limitations of the traditional “rehabilitation” model and the “nothing works” concept regarding prison interventions. Purpose ‒ is to substantiate the understanding of resocialization of persons sentenced to imprisonment as an independent, normatively enshrined objective of sentence execution and to demonstrate its potential as an effective means of reducing recidivism. Objectives defines the content and structure of resocialization in the penitentiary context and its relationship with the category of “rehabilitation”; systematizes Russian and foreign theoretical models of resocialization and empirical data on the impact of resocialization programs on recidivism rates; identifies regulatory and organizational barriers to the implementation of the resocialization approach within the Russian penal system; formulates directions for improving legislation and practice. Methodology. The study employs formal-legal, comparative-legal, historical-legal, criminological, and sociological methods, as well as elements of evidence-based criminology in summarizing foreign meta-analytical research on the effectiveness of resocialization programs. Results. The study demonstrates that the resocialization of persons sentenced to imprisonment is a continuous, multi-level, and manageable process that begins within the correctional institution and culminates in stable lawabiding behavior upon release. When based on structured models, this process is statistically capable of reducing recidivism. The article substantiates the need for normative recognition of resocialization as a goal of sentence execution, the introduction of individualized resocialization programs, adjustment of performance indicators in the penal system, and the development of probation and interagency cooperation mechanisms. Conclusion. It is concluded that, when appropriately supported by legal, organizational, and resource measures, the resocialization of persons sentenced to imprisonment constitutes the only long-term sustainable strategy for reducing recidivism and should become a central element of Russian criminal law and penal policy.
Typology of modern professional criminals
Relevance. In modern times, professional crime is undergoing qualitative changes due to the digitalization of public relations, the increasing complexity of economic ties, and the transformation of social and government control mechanisms. These processes lead to the formation of new forms of professional criminal "fishing", as well as to the modification of traditional criminal practices, which significantly complicates their detection and prevention. In this regard, it is particularly relevant to develop a typology of professional criminals that can reflect the specifics of their activities and identify patterns of adaptation of professional crime to environmental conditions. The purpose of the study is to develop a scientifically based typology of professional criminals by their fields of activity, reflecting the patterns of organization of the "trade" of professional criminals and the transformation of the professional criminal environment at the present stage of its development. Objectives: to analyze the features of the transformation of professional criminal trade in modern conditions; to develop a typology of modern professional criminals and reveal the essence of the identified categories; to determine the significance of the proposed typology for the theory of prevention of professional crime. Methodology. The research applied general scientific and special methods of cognition, including dialectical, formal-logical, system-structural, methods of analysis, synthesis, generalization and classification. Results. It is proved that in modern conditions professional crime acquires a multi-layered character, which requires a revision of traditional approaches to the typologization of professional criminals. The main categories of modern professional criminals are identified and characterized by their fields of activity, reflecting the specifics of the organization of criminal trade at the present time. Conclusion. It has been established that the typologization of professional criminals by their fields of activity allows not only to more fully reflect the structure and internal logic of the development of the modern professional criminal world, but also to identify sustainable models of the organization of the "trade" of professional criminals. The identification and systematization of categories of professional criminals creates a methodological basis for the development of targeted prevention and prevention measures, and also contributes to the formation of a holistic view of modern threats in the field of mercenary crime.
The discretion of the court in resolving the issue of the relevance of evidence to the subject of proof
Relevance. In practice, defenders often face abuses of the court related to its discretionary powers. Thus, often the refusal to satisfy the requests of the defense to attach additional evidence to the case on the grounds of their non-relevance to the criminal case is a struggle with "inconvenient" evidence. The court has a natural desire to prevent such evidence from being included in the materials of the criminal case. This creates the technology allowed by the procedural law for filling a criminal case with materials with an accusatory bias, which grossly violates the right of a criminally prosecuted person to defense. This article is aimed at setting the problem in this part, describing its manifestations in practice and formulating ways to solve it. Purpose: to develop methodologically sound criteria and processes that limit arbitrary judicial discretion (manipulation) in determining the relevance of evidence. Objectives: to critically analyze the doctrinal positions and judicial practice of the courts of appeal and cassation; to identify and identify the factors and institutional prerequisites for subjectivization of the subject of evidence; to propose formalized but flexible methods for formulating the subject of evidence; and to develop proposals that ensure the requirement of reasonableness of the assessment of relevance without unnecessarily simplifying judicial assessment. Methodology: General scientific methods of cognition such as analysis, synthesis, dialectical and systematic methods were used. Research. The study revealed: 1) the normative abstraction of the principle of internal persuasion creates prerequisites for a lack of uniformity in evaluation activities; 2) discretion, in the absence of adequate criteria and control, can transform into a tool of procedural manipulation in resolving the issue of the relevance of evidence. Conclusion. The lack of a unified methodology for formulating the subject of evidence leads to significant differences in the assessment of the relevance of evidence between courts. A sustained reduction in the risks of manipulation in the evidentiary process is achieved only with a combination of changes in substantive and procedural regulation, institutional regulation of examinations and digital procedures, as well as the creation of a methodological framework for participants in criminal proceedings.
The Genesis of legislation to combat illegal circulation of tobacco and nicotine-containing products. Part 2. Criminal law protection
Relevance. Illegal circulation of tobacco and nicotine-containing products undermines the country's economic security, poses a threat to public health, and displaces bona fide participants from this business. However, criminal law enforcement against the illegal tobacco market began relatively recently, and amendments to criminal law are not always proportionate and consistent with the restrictions and prohibitions established by regulatory legislation. Purpose: to establish the evolution of criminal legislation in the area of combating the illegal trafficking of tobacco and nicotine-containing products and to compare it with the prohibitions and restrictions defined in regulatory norms. Objectives: to determine the reasons for establishing criminal liability for the illegal trafficking of tobacco products; to assess changes and the introduction of new anti-tobacco provisions in criminal law; to establish the timeliness and comparability of regulatory and criminal legislation in combating the illegal trafficking of tobacco and nicotine-containing products. Methodology. The article utilizes methods of analysis and synthesis, formal legal analysis, and cybernetic analysis. Results. The formation of criminal anti-tobacco legislation can be traced back to 1999, when criminal liability was established for the illegal trafficking of excisable products and the counterfeiting of excise stamps, as tobacco products were excisable goods. The classification of these products as a separate criminal-law protection group occurred in 2014, owing to the introduction of a specialized "anti-tobacco" law. Due to the introduction of the law on regulating tobacco products (2023), the criminal law was supplemented with provisions on liability for the unlicensed sale of tobacco and nicotine-containing products (2024). Conclusion. The development of two fundamental laws regulating the tobacco market led to corresponding adjustments to criminal legislation. However, numerous amendments to the "anti-tobacco law" over the past 10 years have not been reflected in the "anti-tobacco" provisions of the criminal law. In particular, the introduction of labeling codes in 2018 and the inclusion of nicotine products under the "anti-tobacco law" in 2019 had no impact on the changes to the "anti-tobacco" provisions of the criminal law: the corresponding amendments were not introduced until 2025.
The 2024 Electoral Code and the formation of "monocolor democracy" in Benin (a case study of the 2026 parliamentary elections)
Relevance. The parliamentary elections of January 11, 2026, in Benin were the result of an institutional transformation. The new Electoral Code (2024) established an unprecedented parliamentary barrier: 20% of the vote in each of the 24 districts, undermining political pluralism. Against the backdrop of an attempted coup on December 7, 2025, and the upcoming presidential election in April 2026, the analysis of this case is crucial for understanding the democratic regression in West Africa. The purpose is to analyze the mechanisms of the 2024 Electoral Code that ensured the exclusion of opposition and the formation of a "monocolor democracy". Objectives: to conduct a political and legal analysis of the Code's key articles (146, 132); to identify strategic adaptations of the main political actors to the new institutional environment; to assess the results of the 2026 parliamentary elections; to formulate the features and consequences of a "monocolor democracy". Methodology. The study employs institutional, political-legal, and quantitative analysis of electoral statistics, comparative-historical method, and content analysis. Results. It is established that the 2024 Electoral Code created not just a barrier but a system of institutional filters, including: a) a geographical barrier (20% in each district) neutralizing opposition with a regional base; b) a selective mechanism lowering the threshold for loyal coalitions; c) a rule requiring signatures from MPs and mayors, blocking opposition access to presidential elections and creating a "closed loop" of power. These measures predetermined the 2026 election outcome, leading to the formation of a parliament fully controlled by the president while excluding the Democrats party (LD), which received 16.14% of the vote. The low turnout (36.74%) indicates a crisis of the process's legitimacy. Conclusion. A model of "monocolor democracy" has emerged in Benin, where formal elections are accompanied by blocked power rotation. This is a consequence of autocratic legalism by the dominant political group. The main implications are the weakening of parliament's role, declining institutional legitimacy, and an increased risk of extra-systemic forms of political confrontation. This case illustrates a specific institutional adaptation in the context of political transformation.
Digital media as an agent of political socialization of youth: mechanisms of influence and challenges
Relevance. In the context of the digitalization of the public sphere, digital media are becoming a key agent of youth political socialization, transforming the traditional system of socializing institutions. Algorithmic mechanisms of social platforms shape new patterns of information consumption and political participation, generating cognitive and socio-political risks that require scholarly interpretation. The purpose of the study is to identify the mechanisms through which digital media influence youth political socialization and to substantiate the need for a transition to a comprehensive model of state governance of digital socialization within the framework of youth, information, and educational policy. The research objectives include analyzing the transformation of agents of political socialization in the digital media environment, identifying the mechanisms of digital media influence on youth political consciousness, and developing a typology of risks associated with digital socialization along with their governance implications. Methodology. The study is based on systemic and institutional approaches, the theory of political socialization, and the concept of the network society. The methodological toolkit includes comparative analysis, generalization of statistical data (Mediascope, FOM), structural-functional analysis of digital influence mechanisms, and risk typologization. Results. It is established that digital media transform the vertical model of political socialization into a horizontal, algorithmically governed system in which digital platforms and influencers act as key agents. Three interrelated mechanisms of influence: cognitive, emotional, and behavioral are identified. Individual, social, and political risks of digital socialization are determined, and their governance dimension is revealed. A structural contradiction is substantiated between the formally established responsibility of the state for shaping youth political culture and the de facto dominance of algorithmic systems of private platforms. Conclusion. The study substantiates the need to shift from reactive regulation of the digital environment to a proactive platform-based model of public governance, which implies cross-sectoral coordination of youth, information, and educational policies, as well as the institutionalization of media literacy as a strategic element in fostering a stable political consciousness among youth.
Outreach work of the Kursk branch of the All-Russian society for the protection of historical and cultural monuments in the late Soviet period (1965–1993)
Relevance. Studying the activities of regional branches of VOOPIK in the late Soviet period can shed light on the process of preserving cultural heritage during the Soviet era. They often played a key role in mobilizing the public and organizing interactions with government agencies. The example of the Kursk Region, which had not previously been the subject of research in this context, allows us to identify local characteristics of monument protection and assess the contribution of ordinary Soviet citizens and collective organizations to the protection of historical memory. The purpose is to summarize the experience of the Kursk branch of VOOPIK in promoting and using monuments from 1965 to 1993. Objectives: to characterize the main forms of public participation in the protection of historical and cultural monuments, demonstrate the organizing role of VOOPIK in preserving historical memory, and reveal the local characteristics of this process using the example of the Kursk Region in the late Soviet period. Methodology. To achieve the stated goals and objectives of the study, the authors relied on the principles of objectivity and historicism. Specific historical methods were used during the study: descriptive-narrative, retrospective, and historical-systemic. Results. The study revealed the specifics of the Kursk branch of VOOPIK, taking into account the sociopolitical and cultural situation in the region. It also provided a detailed description of the forms, methods, and topics of the branch's propaganda efforts. It also highlighted the difficulties the society faced during Perestroika, which forced it to temporarily suspend its activities. Conclusion. The study provided a comprehensive understanding of the activities of the Kursk branch of VOOPIK and its role in preserving historical and cultural heritage. It was revealed that the public's primary focus was on sites related to the October Revolution, the Civil War, and the Great Patriotic War, as, according to VOOPIK's leadership, these sites effectively addressed "communist education issues" from the 1960s to 1980s and provided concrete support for the ideological campaigns of the central and local authorities.
Agrarian crisis and the wiggering of class contradictions in the village as a factor in the revolutionary situation in Russia in 1917
Relevance. This article analyzes the agrarian crisis and associated class contradictions in the Russian Empire as a key factor determining the emergence of a revolutionary situation by 1917. Purpose ‒ to conduct a scientific analysis of the agrarian crisis and the exacerbation of class contradictions in the Russian village as a fundamental factor in the formation of the revolutionary situation in 1917. Objectives to analyzing the origins and long-term consequences of the 1861 reform; to investigating the structure and dynamics of agrarian overpopulation and its socioeconomic consequences; to identifying and characterizing the main vectors of class contradictions in the agrarian sector; to assessing the impact of Stolypin's agrarian reform on the socioeconomic situation in the village; determining the role of World War I as a catalyst for the agrarian crisis; and analyzing the form and dynamics of the peasant movement. Methodology. This study is based on the application of principles of systemic-historical and integrated approaches, allowing us to consider the agrarian crisis not as an isolated phenomenon, but as a key element in the structure of the overall crisis of the Russian Empire, interconnected with political, social, and economic processes. The methodological framework of the study is formed by the synthesis of several general scientific and specialized historical methods. Results. The study yielded a number of results that systematically characterize the agrarian crisis and its role in the escalation of social contradictions that led to the Russian Revolution of 1917. The irreconcilable nature of the contradictions between the landowner class and the peasantry is revealed, and internal conflicts within the peasantry are analyzed. It is argued that World War I acted as a catalyst, bringing existing contradictions to a boiling point through a food crisis and labor shortages. Conclusions. The main conclusion of the study is that the systemic, multi-layered agrarian crisis created a powerful social foundation for the revolution. The unresolved land issue became a central problem, which, under wartime conditions, led to an inevitable social upheaval.
Historiographical features of studying the events of military history of 1941–1942 on the territory of Central Chernozemye
The relevance of this study is determined by the current state of historical science, which is characterized by the need to overcome a fundamental imbalance in the level of research concerning various stages of the Great Patriotic War. The events of 1941–1942 (the defense of Kursk and Orel, the Voronezh-Voroshilovgrad and Yelets operations) remained for a long time in the shadow of the large-scale victories of 1943, which gave rise to the phenomenon of "forgotten battles". Synthesizing historiographical experience through the lens of new approaches allows for the construction of a comprehensive picture of wartime events. The purpose is to provide a comprehensive problem-oriented historiographical characterization of the evolution of Russian scholarship regarding the key military history events of the Central Black Earth Region and to identify the transformation of research paradigms from the period of the Great Patriotic War to the present day. Objectives: to define and systematize the main parameters revealing the stages of development of the problem's historiography; to trace the dynamics of changes in the source base from propaganda materials to declassified archival documents; to identify the influence of ideological factors on the formation of historical concepts; and to evaluate the contribution of regional research schools to eliminating "lacunae" in military history. Methodology. A complex of complementary methods was used, including the problem-chronological method (to identify stages), the comparative-historical method (to compare concepts), as well as methods of retrospective analysis and periodization. Results. Reveals the complex evolution of the historical narrative concerning the military events of 1941–1942 in the Central Black Earth Region. A four-stage periodization of historiography is substantiated. The study demonstrates how the research focus shifted from heroic episodes to the analysis of operational failures, collaborationism, and the "human dimension" of war. The process of overcoming the stereotypes of the "Kursk Bulge effect" ‒ where events of 1941–1942 were viewed merely as a prelude to the events of 1943 ‒ is presented. Conclusions. The current stage of historiography is characterized by balance and a multifactorial approach. Thanks to the introduction of new documents the main gaps in the history of the battles in the Bryansk and Voronezh directions have been closed, and the strategic significance of the 1941–1942 defensive operations for the general course of the war has been proven.
The "Frontline Friends" club association as a form of social activism for female veterans
Relevance. This article explores a little-studied aspect of Soviet social life: the structural and functional characteristics of women's veteran organizations representing those who participated in the Great Patriotic War. For many years, the specifics of women's veterans' associations, such as the "Frontline Girlfriends" club founded in the Kursk region on March 2, 1985, remained unexplored. Only in 2010, on the 25th anniversary of the Kursk Women Frontline Veterans' Club, were publications published containing memoirs of the work and lives of its activists, which for many years became the only retrospective reflection of their social activism. By comparing materials from these journalistic collections with documents from the State Archive of Socio-Political History of the Kursk Region, the author of this article identified discrepancies in the facts presented. This circumstance necessitated further examination of the history of this unique regional women's veterans' organization. The purpose - of this study is to summarize and clarify the specifics of the civic and patriotic activities of veterans of the "Frontline Friends" club. Objectives: to identify key areas of work for female veterans in the Kursk region and to reflect the contradictions that arose in their daily social activities. Methodology. To achieve the stated goals and objectives of the study, the author relied on the principles of objectivity and historicism, using historical-comparative, retrospective, and historical-genetic research methods. Results. A compelling assessment of the achievements and shortcomings of the "Frontline Friends" club in the Kursk region is provided through a comparison of various sources. This analysis highlights the work of a specific public organization that supported the multifaceted activities of female veterans in key areas of veteran activities. Conclusion. The activities of the "Frontline Friends" club, as the first women's veteran organization in the Kursk region, remained unexplored for many years. The books "Glorious Daughters of the Fatherland" and "Glorious Daughters of the Fatherland: Frontline Friends" dedicated to the work and fates of its activists, were not without their shortcomings. The methodological tools used allowed us to generalize and clarify the experiences of women veterans of the Great Patriotic War in their community work.
Restoration of physical culture and sports activities in the Kursk region from 1943 to 1945
The relevance of the scientific article is due to the fact that currently the intensification of mass sports and physical education activities among the population of our country is of particular importance due to the growing international tension. Government 1agencies pay great attention to this topic. The purpose of the scientific article is to reveal the main results of the process of restoring physical culture and sports activities in the Kursk region from 1943 to 1945. The objective of the scientific research is to identify, analyze, and summarize the results of the process of restoring physical culture and sports activities in the Kursk region from 1943 to 1945 based on the study of archival and other materials. Methodology. During the scientific research, the authors relied on the principles of objectivity, scientific, and historicism. The historical search for the research topic was based on historical-chronological, historical-comparative and analytical methods. Results. The restoration of physical culture and sports activities in the Kursk region began shortly after the liberation of Kursk from the Nazi invaders. In 1943-1945, the regional, district and city committees for physical education and sports were restored, and voluntary sports societies were revived. State structures, the Executive Committee of the Regional Council of Workers' Deputies provided material, technical and financial support in the restoration of sports facilities, in holding mass sports events. The plan for training badgers of the TRP complex for 1944 was fully implemented. However, the restoration of physical culture and sports work in the student and school environment was slow. Conclusions. The restoration of physical culture and sports work in the Kursk region from 1943 to 1945 was accompanied by difficulties associated with the lack of physical culture specialists, sports facilities and equipment. However, in this historical period, the governing bodies for physical culture and sports of the Kursk region, VSS were restored, sports work in the school and student environment was revived. Passing the GTO standards has become important. The restoration of sports facilities was underway.
Lecture propaganda in the 1950s as the main form of historical education (based on the materials of the state institution "Archive of the city of sevastopol")
Relevance. In the conditions of modern society, where the state policy in the field of historical education is once again gaining special importance, referring to the experience of the past becomes a necessary tool for understanding current challenges. The lecture propaganda of the 1950s in the USSR is a unique example of a massive, centrally controlled system of historical and ideological influence. Despite its obvious propaganda orientation, it played a key role in shaping historical memory, patriotic consciousness, and the general Soviet narrative. At the same time, the regional aspects of this activity, including local forms of implementation of ideological attitudes, remain insufficiently studied, which underlines the scientific and practical significance of the topic. Purpose ‒ to analyze the content of lecture propaganda of the 1950s as the main form of historical enlightenment in the USSR, with an emphasis on its organizational, ideological and regional features. Objectives: to characterize the structure and main directions of lecture propaganda in the 50s of the twentieth century; to identify key ideological attitudes transmitted through the historical theme of lectures; to evaluate the role of lecture propaganda. Methodology. The research methodology is determined by the set goal and includes the principles of historicism, objectivity and consistency, complemented by problem-chronological and historical-comparative methods. Results. It is established that the lecture propaganda of the 1950s was a tightly centralized, ideologically controlled system. It is shown that at the regional level (using the example of Sevastopol), a local history approach was implemented, focused on patriotic education through local history. Control mechanisms have been identified: mandatory approval of lecture plans and texts, peer review, and sound recording of speeches, which indicates a high level of ideological discipline. The dual nature of lecture propaganda is noted: on the one hand, it is an instrument of doctrinal influence, on the other, it is an important channel of historical education for the general population, especially in rural areas. Conclusions. Lecture propaganda of the 1950s was not only a form of mass education, but also a key element of the Soviet ideological machine aimed at forming a unified historical consciousness.
Health care problems in the Chkalov Region on the eve of the Great Patriotic War
Relevance. The article analyzes the development and functioning of the healthcare system in Chkalov Region on the eve of the Great Patriotic War in the context of the all-Union public health policy. Based on records of the United State Archive of Orenburg Region, normative acts and published sources, it examines the availability of medical personnel and the network of healthcare facilities, their compliance with average USSR indicators, as well as the specific features of rural and state-farm healthcare. The contradiction between the rapid quantitative growth of the medical network and the low efficiency of its work is demonstrated. Purpose ‒ to identify the specific features of the development and functioning of the healthcare system of Chkalov Region on the eve of the war by revealing its human, material and organizational-financial capacities and limitations. Objectives: the research seeks to trace the dynamics of staffing levels and the expansion of healthcare facilities in the 1930s and compare them with all-Union averages; to reveal key organizational and managerial problems at regional and district levels and assess their impact on wartime readiness; to characterize the state of the sanitary-anti-epidemic service, immunization and health education, highlighting their strengths and vulnerabilities. Methodology. The study is based on the principles of scientific rigor, objectivity and historicism, combines a systems approach, elements of systems analysis, general scientific methods (analysis, synthesis) and special historical methods (problem-chronological and comparative-historical). Results. The findings are of historical and applied nature and reconstruct the real potential of regional healthcare on the eve of the war and the extent to which it met the requirements of the mobilization period. Conclusion. Chkalov Region entered the war with a formally developed but structurally and resource-strained healthcare system: many institutions failed to meet planned indicators, demonstrated poor organization of work and control, weak preventive and outreach activities, and only formal use of sanitary-epidemiological infrastructure, which made profound wartime restructuring necessary.