The perplexed world of Russian private schools: findings from field research

Based on field research conducted in 1997-98 in St Petersburg, Russia, this paper explores the contemporary status and viability of the postcommunist elementary and secondary private schools. Findings from in-depth qualitativ e interviews, observations and analysis a documents suggest that the Russia n private schools find themselves in a perplexed and precarious situation. Although formally legalised, they operate amidst the anemic situation of le gal contradictions. Financially unstable, they engage in a dual economy wit h heavy reliance on informal networks, sometimes criminal in nature. It is predicted that the current socioeconomic crisis will diminish the number an d diversity of private schools. It is argued that private schools' survival depends on the stabilisation of the Russian economy, and political and leg al protection of minority rights.