The Formation of the Image of Soviet Police in Public Opinion During the “Thaw”

Abstract

The article analyzes the historical experience of the Soviet Militia to improve the its image in public consciousness between 1950 and 60. I used a large number of sources: archival documents Ministry of Internal Affairs of the USSR, published in various newspapers and magazines, and films. An analysis of archival materials showed that, after the war, the Soviet police worked under difficult conditions: a strong increase in crime, lack of educated personnel, poor financing. Militia leaders worked to improve the image of the police in the public consciousness. The author explores several areas of work: the police holding interviews with the public, publications in journals, cooperation with the creative intelligentsia. Analysis of historical factors indicated that the organization of meetings with the population was of great interest to people. The police officers told the public about their work, they explained the requirements of the law. Militia leaders actively used various periodicals such as newspapers, radio and TV. The author shows that newspapers have used different methods to influence public with a view to improving the perception of the public about the police. For example, newspapers published articles in which the police were shown in their home environment, in their social role as husband/father/mother. The author paid great attention to cooperation with the police leadership of the creative intelligentsia. The USSR Interior Ministry organized a competition for the best literary work of the police. Contests were held several times. A large number of writers took taken part in these competitions. Literary works were the basis for well-known films about police scenarios. They formed famous images such as Uncle Stepa-militiaman, service dog Mukhtar, district Aniskin.