A book that examines Russian President Vladimir Putin’s private life, political rise and inner circle has won the newly created Prix Strasbourg, a French literary award.
Russian investigative journalists Roman Badanin and Mikhail Rubin wrote The Tsar in Propria Persona: How Vladimir Putin Deceived Us All. Both journalists now live in exile in the United States.
The book draws on more than 20 years of investigative reporting. It also uses hundreds of interviews and archival material, AFP reported. The jury called the book a “fascinating and shocking” account. It said the investigation reads “like a spy novel”.
"It is the result of several hundred interviews with witnesses, some of whom later disappeared under tragic circumstances," the jury said, as quoted by AFP.
Book Examines Putin’s Power Network
Badanin and Rubin lead the independent Russian investigative outlet Proekt. They have spent years investigating Putin’s life and political career. Their work looks at parts of his life that rarely appear in the Kremlin’s official narrative.
The journalists examine Putin’s personal relationships. They also investigate the wealth of people close to him. The book focuses on Putin’s early political career in St Petersburg. The authors examine his links with political figures and people allegedly connected to organised crime.
They also explore the role of Putin’s family members, friends and close associates. According to the investigation, these people gained financial and political benefits as Putin strengthened his power.
Investigation Challenges Putin’s Public Image
The book challenges the carefully managed image that Putin has built over the years. Putin has often presented himself as a defender of traditional family and social values. However, the authors examine a different side of his personal life.
They also focus on the network that developed around him as he consolidated power. The investigation relies on more than two decades of reporting. The journalists also conducted hundreds of interviews. The authors said some people who shared information with them later disappeared or died in circumstances that raised questions.
Authors Continue Work From Exile
Badanin and Rubin now live in the US. They left Russia after facing pressure and legal action over their investigative journalism. Badanin said the authors wanted international readers to learn the "actual facts" about Putin and the system around him.
"The message we wanted to convey with this book is as follows: there is no need to invent anything about Putin. Instead, learn how things really are. That is horrifying enough," he told AFP.
"Only a genuine understanding of the facts can help us make sound assessments, respond effectively, and plan for the future of relations between nations," he added.
Book Wins €20,000 Prize
The Prix Strasbourg was established by EBRA and Crédit Mutuel. The award carries a top prize of €20,000. The book first appeared in Russian. Its French edition will hit bookstores next month.
The award has brought fresh attention to the investigation. The authors hope it will help more readers understand Putin’s political rise, personal network and system of power.