Gheorghi Filimonov, the ultraconservative governor of Russia’s Vologda region, has been at the center of controversy for his strict anti-abortion and alcohol policies. Elected in 2024 after being appointed interim governor in 2023, Filimonov has positioned himself as a staunch supporter of Orthodox traditions, echoing the values championed by the Kremlin.
A 31-year-old worker from Vologda, Artiom, highlighted a local joke: “When people from Vologda come to us, it’s for alcohol, fuel, or abortions.” This quip reflects the region’s struggles, as many residents seek services banned or heavily restricted under Filimonov’s governance.
Filimonov’s Stance on Alcohol and Abortion
Filimonov, a former kickboxer aged 46, has launched a campaign against what he terms the “genocide by alcohol,” a narrative he shared during a debate alongside ultranationalist ideologue Alexandr Dugin. He argues that Russia faces threats from depopulation and foreign influence due to alcohol consumption, claiming the West is responsible for these societal issues.
His actions have led to significant restrictions on abortion access in Vologda. Human Rights Watch reports that while there is no formal ban on abortion, Filimonov has effectively created barriers through administrative pressure on clinics. Irina Fainman from the Emergency Contraceptive Fund describes these measures as illegal and authoritarian, resulting in clandestine abortions and “abortion tourism,” wherein women travel to neighboring regions for the procedure.
Despite Filimonov’s claims of having addressed depopulation issues, many locals disagree. Oksana, a 19-year-old student, expressed her belief that abortion should remain a personal decision, reflecting the generational divide on these issues.
Alcohol Regulations and Public Reaction
Filimonov’s regime has also imposed stringent regulations on alcohol sales, allowing purchases only between noon and 2 PM on weekdays. This measure has drawn frustration from residents like Nadejda, 52, who lamented, “Everyone is against this; now we are forced to buy large quantities at once.”
James C. Pearce, a British historian living in Russia, remarked on Filimonov’s conviction in his beliefs, stating that the governor is sincere in his conservative views and does not shy away from expressing them.
Political Aspirations and Controversial Actions
Filimonov is running at the top of the United Russia party’s list for the upcoming parliamentary elections on September 18-20. His candidacy is seen as largely uncontested, given the government’s efforts to silence opposition voices. Interestingly, he previously endorsed the lifting of a statue of Joseph Stalin, considering the Soviet dictator a “remarkable personality.” This sentiment resonates with the Kremlin, which has allowed a Stalin statue to be reinstated in Moscow’s metro.
As he prepares for the elections, there are speculations that Filimonov might adopt a strategy known as “the locomotive,” where a prominent candidate leads a party list only to step down in favor of colleagues after securing a victory. Regardless, his current policies and statements continue to attract both support and criticism from various quarters in Russian society.
