Nomenklaturkoden

Nomenklaturkoden, also known as the nomenklatura, is a term used in Soviet and Eastern Bloc studies to describe the system of political and economic control that existed within the Communist Party of the Soviet Union and its satellite states. The term "nomenklatura" is derived from the Russian word "nomenklatura," which means "list of names." This system was established to maintain control over the party and the state, ensuring that only approved individuals held positions of power and influence.

The nomenklatura consisted of a select group of party members who were deemed loyal to the Communist Party and the Soviet state. These individuals were often granted special privileges and access to resources, which allowed them to maintain their positions of power. The nomenklatura was responsible for making key decisions within the party and the state, and their influence extended to various aspects of society, including the economy, culture, and education.

The nomenklatura system was characterized by its hierarchical structure, with a small group of elite party members at the top, followed by a larger group of mid-level officials, and a vast number of lower-level party members. This structure ensured that power and influence were concentrated in the hands of a few, while the majority of the population remained marginalized and dependent on the state for their livelihoods.

The nomenklatura system was officially abolished in the Soviet Union in 1988, following the death of Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev. However, its legacy continues to be felt in many former Eastern Bloc countries, where the system of political and economic control that it represented has been replaced by new forms of corruption and clientelism.