Russia Names Parties Eligible For Duma Elections

Fifteen parties meet the requirements outlined in the Russian federal legislation on political parties.

According to recent independent polls, four parties are likely to dominate the vote: the pro-Putin Unified Russia and A Just Russia; the Communist Party of the Russian Federation; and the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia.

In order to compete in the December 2 elections, the parties have to complete a final round of registration with the Central Election Commission.

Deputies are elected to the State Duma under a proportional system. To qualify for parliamentary representation, parties must receive at least 7 percent of the vote.

In 2006, the minimum required percentage was raised from 5 percent, and the minimum voter turnout was also abolished. The changes are widely regarded as favoring pro-Kremlin parties.

(RFE/RL's Russian Service)