The emergence of public relations in the Russian Federation

This article describes the emergence of public relations in the Russian Federation over the past 7 years. It appears as if public relations has developed more rapidly within the public sector, where officials and practitioners are having trouble with the concept of openness. Russian government practitioners also appear more vulnerable to the effects of crises than their American counterparts. Foreign interests dominate the commercial sector, but that appears to be changing. One conclusion of this research is that Russia is developing its own vision of public relations. Although many aspects of this emerging profession will be similar to that found in the West, it will also adapt to the harsh realities of Russian life. Those interested in importing public relations expertise to the former Soviet Union are reminded of this dynamic. David W. Guth is an associate professor at the William Alien White School of Journalism and Mass Communications, University of Kansas. He has made several trips to Russia in recent years to train journalists and public relations practitioners on behalf of the State Department and the former United States Information Agency.