Annotation

Based on an analysis of scientific sources and provisions of domestic basic laws (1918–1978) to identify the subjects to whom constitutional independence is addressed, the authors concluded that social subjects – workers, peasants, and citizens – were granted this resource only in the 1918 and 1978 (as amended in 1992) constitutions. Public entities include the state as a whole, as well as its constituent entities in different historical periods, such as Soviet republics, autonomous republics, republics, autonomous regions and autonomous districts, krais, oblasts, and the cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg; local self-government – were granted authority to carry out their duties independently, within certain limits and in accordance with the constitution and laws.