About
Valeriya Ilyinichna Novodvorskaya (1950-2014) was a prominent Russian and Soviet dissident, writer, and liberal politician. She was known for her staunch criticism of the Soviet regime and later of Vladimir Putin's government. Novodvorskaya founded and chaired the Democratic Union party, advocating for democratic reforms and human rights in Russia. She was also a member of the editorial board of The New Times, a liberal Russian magazine.
Career Timeline
Early Dissident Activities
Novodvorskaya begins her dissident activities, facing Soviet persecution.
Founds Democratic Union Party
Novodvorskaya founds the Democratic Union party.
Critic of Putin's Government
Novodvorskaya becomes a vocal critic of Vladimir Putin's government.
Death in Moscow
Novodvorskaya dies in Moscow.
Remembered as Russian Dissident
Novodvorskaya's legacy as a staunch critic of authoritarianism is remembered by some Russian liberals, though she has faded from mainstream consciousness.
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Last updated: February 24, 2026