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Glasnost

Definition

Glasnost is a Russian word meaning "openness". It was a policy introduced by Mikhail Gorbachev that encouraged transparency and freedom of speech within the Soviet Union.

Analogy

Imagine if your school suddenly allowed students to openly discuss any topic or issue without fear - even controversial ones. That's what glasnost did for citizens in Russia; it opened up dialogue where there used to be silence or censorship.

Related terms

Censorship: The suppression or prohibition of any parts of books, films, news, etc. that are considered obscene, politically unacceptable, or a threat to security. Glasnost was a move away from this practice in the Soviet Union.

Democratization: The transition to a more democratic political regime. Glasnost can be seen as part of Gorbachev's efforts towards democratization.

Propaganda: Information, especially of a biased or misleading nature, used to promote or publicize a particular political cause or point of view. The policy of glasnost aimed at reducing the use of propaganda by promoting openness and transparency.