Russian Revolution’s centenary is ex-communist, Vladimir Putin’s dilemma

As an ex-communist, Russian president, Vladimir Putin will be respectful of the revolutions of that shaped his country, but will not endorse too much freedom, says Geoffrey Roberts.

How should a conservative government commemorate a revolution that was crucial to the foundation of its state?

The Government’s response last year to the Easter Rising centenary was commendably open and pluralistic. The heroes of 1916 were lionised, but their victims were remembered.