With their red ties and Vladimir Lenin badges, members of the Young Pioneers youth organization were a common sight in the Soviet Union.
For some, they were loyal Soviet citizens whose motto was “Always ready!”.
For others, they were victims of Kremlin propaganda who were encouraged to denounce their own parents. Members were expected to “build communism, work for the welfare of the motherland, and prepare to be its defender.”
The pioneer movement was disbanded with the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. Now, in yet another indication of Russia’s return to its Soviet past, the Kremlin has announced plans to create a new nationwide youth organization. Vladimir Putin’s official role as head of its supervisory board will give him full control over
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