Peresta

Peresta refers to a period of significant political and economic reforms in the Soviet Union initiated by Mikhail Gorbachev in 1985. The term itself translates from Russian as "restructuring." Perestroika aimed to revitalize the Soviet economy, which had been stagnating for years, by introducing elements of market socialism and decentralization. This involved allowing more autonomy for state-owned enterprises, encouraging private cooperatives, and reducing the state's direct control over economic planning.

Alongside economic reforms, Gorbachev also introduced glasnost, which meant "openness." Glasnost allowed for greater freedom of speech and press, encouraging public discussion of social and political issues. This loosening of censorship led to a surge in criticism of the Soviet system and exposed long-standing problems within the government and society.

The combined policies of perestroika and glasnost had profound and unintended consequences. While intended to strengthen the Soviet Union, they ultimately weakened its central authority. The increased openness fueled nationalist sentiments in the Soviet republics, leading to demands for independence. Economic reforms were often poorly implemented, causing disruptions and shortages. The weakening of the Communist Party's grip on power and the growing discontent among the populace contributed significantly to the dissolution of the Soviet Union in December 1991. Perestroika remains a pivotal and controversial period in late 20th-century history, marking the end of the Soviet era and ushering in a new geopolitical landscape.