Glasnost

Definition

Glasnost, meaning 'openness,' was a policy introduced by Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev in the mid-1980s aimed at increasing transparency in government and encouraging public discussion of political and social issues. This policy played a crucial role in the transformation of Soviet society, fostering an environment that ultimately led to the decline of communist control and significant changes across Eastern Europe.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Glasnost was part of Gorbachev's broader reform agenda, which included perestroika and aimed at revitalizing the Soviet system.
2. Under glasnost, media censorship was relaxed, allowing for more open criticism of the government and its policies.
3. The policy led to increased public discourse on issues such as human rights, national identity, and historical grievances, paving the way for movements advocating for independence in various Soviet republics.
4. Glasnost contributed to a wave of revolutions across Eastern Europe in 1989, culminating in the fall of communist regimes in countries like Poland, Hungary, and East Germany.
5. The openness promoted by glasnost ultimately revealed deep-seated issues within the Soviet system, hastening its collapse by undermining the legitimacy of communist rule.

Review Questions

• How did glasnost contribute to political change in the Soviet Union during Gorbachev's leadership?
  • Glasnost allowed for greater freedom of expression and public discourse, leading to increased criticism of the government. This openness revealed widespread dissatisfaction with the communist regime and its policies, prompting citizens to demand reforms. As a result, political change became inevitable as public pressure mounted for democratization and greater autonomy within the Soviet republics.
• Analyze the impact of glasnost on Eastern European countries during the late 1980s.
  • Glasnost had a significant influence on Eastern European countries by inspiring citizens to challenge their own oppressive regimes. The relaxation of censorship and promotion of open dialogue encouraged movements advocating for democracy and reform, leading to mass protests and uprisings. This culminated in a wave of revolutions that saw the fall of several communist governments, demonstrating how glasnost's principles resonated beyond the Soviet borders.
• Evaluate how glasnost altered the relationship between the Soviet Union and Western powers during the late 20th century.
  • Glasnost marked a shift towards more transparent relations between the Soviet Union and Western powers. With Gorbachev's willingness to engage in dialogue about arms reduction and human rights issues, tensions from the Cold War began to ease. This newfound openness not only contributed to significant arms control agreements but also fostered a more cooperative atmosphere that ultimately redefined international relations during this pivotal time in history.

Related terms

Perestroika:

A policy initiated by Gorbachev aimed at restructuring the Soviet economy and government to improve efficiency and encourage private enterprise.

Democratization: The process of introducing democratic reforms in the Soviet Union, leading to greater political freedoms and the eventual collapse of one-party rule.

Cold War:

The prolonged period of geopolitical tension between the Soviet Union and Western powers, particularly the United States, following World War II.