Leiden University Student Repository

Hollander, Pietjan den (2020)

Rediscovering Soviet Subversion? Studying the effect of GRU reforms on subversive action

Bachelor thesis | International Studies (BA)

The Russian military intelligence organization GRU drew attention to itself in recent years through a series of subversive actions. With varied outcome. This research aims to see how the reforms of the GRU between 2009 and 2011 impacted the use of subversion by the GRU. The hypothesis is that the GRU rediscovered its Soviet roots. Especially considering five key-areas: target, intention, methods, means and allies. The research suggests that the GRU did not change significantly after the fall of the Soviet Union. After the reforms they did, but not towards the Soviet tradition of subversion, but rather in a new direction. The hypothesis therefore is rejected.

GRU

Subversion

Intelligence Reform

Author

Hollander, Pietjan den

Faculty

Faculty of Humanities

Specialisation

Russia&Eurasia

Supervisors

Bader, Max

ECTS Credits

15

Language

en