Alena V. Ledeneva, born in Novosibirsk in 1964, developed a framework for understanding informal practices within Russia. Her research examines how interpersonal networks facilitate survival, governance, and institutional functions. By tracing the evolution of these systems from Soviet-era resource exchanges to contemporary power structures, she provides a quantitative and theoretical basis for evaluating political systems and systemic corruption.
Academic Foundation
Ledeneva completed her initial economics studies at Novosibirsk State University in 1986. She transitioned to social and political theory at the University of Cambridge, obtaining an M.Phil in 1992 and a Ph.D. in 1996. Following her doctoral work, she held a postdoctoral position at New Hall College, Cambridge, between 1996 and 1999. Her career includes visiting appointments at Sciences Po in Paris and the Institute of Advanced Studies, also in Paris.
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Her academic output centers on a trilogy of monographs published by Cambridge University Press and Cornell University Press. The first, Russia's Economy of Favours, analyzed blat—the use of personal networks to navigate shortages. The second, How Russia Really Works, identified how these informal practices evolved during the 1990s. The third volume, Can Russia Modernise: Sistema, Power Networks and Informal Governance, examined the role of clientele networks in shaping political leadership.
Global Encyclopaedia and Broader Impact
Ledeneva expanded the study of informality into a collaborative global project. She edited the Global Encyclopaedia of Informality, a three-volume open-access work published by UCL Press. These volumes incorporate findings from over 200 contributors. Her research on systemic corruption has gained attention regarding international political interference, including the 2016 U.S. presidential election. In 2024, she presented her first solo exhibition, The System Made Me Do It.
Fast facts
- Born: May 1964, Novosibirsk
- Citizenship: United Kingdom, Soviet Union
- Professor of Politics and Society: University College London
- Membership: Valdai International Discussion Club
- Selected Publication: Russian Pendulum (2026)
- Professional Recognition: Shortlisted for the Pushkin House Book Prize 2026
Questions readers ask
What is the primary subject of Alena V. Ledeneva's research?
She specializes in the study of informal practices, such as blat and power networks, within Russian political and economic systems.
What major works constitute her trilogy on Russia?
The trilogy includes Russia's Economy of Favours (1998), How Russia Really Works (2006), and Can Russia Modernise (2013).
Achievements
- Held posts at Harvard University, University of Manchester and Sciences Po
