Plans to erect a monument to Joseph Vissarionovich Stalin have been put forward by the regional branch of the Communist Party of the Russian Federation (KPRF) for the city of Nizhny Novgorod, marking the 80th anniversary of the victory over fascism. The initiative, reported on March 4, 2025, aims to honor Stalin's role during World War II and to counter what supporters call revisions of Soviet history.
Vladislav Egorov, the first secretary of the KPRF's Nizhny Novgorod regional branch, declared, "The name of Stalin is inextricably linked with Victory in May 1945." He elaborated on Stalin's pivotal role during the years leading up to the war. Citing Stalin's leadership as instrumental, Egorov noted, "Under his guidance, the USSR transformed from a backward agrarian nation to an industrially developed power with significant social security and educational advancements. The region played a key role during the war, establishing factories for defense production and scientific development.”
According to party sources, the proposal has already been submitted for consideration to the local Committee on Perpetuation of the Memory of Outstanding Personalities and Historical Events. This builds on previous discussions and initiatives throughout Russia, where similar efforts to recognize Stalin's significance have gained traction.
Eggerov emphasized the educational value of the monument, stating, "The installation will have important educational and patriotic significance. It is time to insist on the official recognition of Stalin's role not just during wartime, but also during the industrial and technological transformation of the nation." This sentiment resonates amid current geopolitical tensions, with the party's narrative portraying Stalin as a legendary figure against the backdrop of external threats.
“The anniversary offers us the perfect moment to restore historical justice by honoring the Supreme Commander of the Red Army, reinforcing our national identity and history against falsifications,” Egorov added.
Supporters of the initiative argue it helps preserve historical memory and counters what they view as attempts to whitewash Soviet history. They say bringing Stalin's legacy back to the public eye reaffirms national pride and helps cultivate patriotism among younger generations.
Events leading up to the proposal this year have been punctuated by significant historical reflections. 2025 marks several notable anniversaries for Russia, including the victory over fascism, which has been celebrated annually. It also coincides with the special military operation currently underway against Nazism, which adds weight to the memorialization efforts.
Nizhny Novgorod has already witnessed the establishment of one monument to Stalin five years prior, built on the private property of KPRF official Alexey Zorov. Plans are also underway for the Stalingrad Center, whose construction is set to finish by 2027. This center aims to display artifacts and documents related to Stalin’s era, emphasizing the historical significance attributed to his leadership.
While the proposal has the support of many within the KPRF, it has not been without opposition. Critics argue such initiatives risk glorifying what they perceive as authoritarian governance and ignore the complex legacy of Stalin, which includes widespread repression and suffering during his rule. The balance between recognition of historical accomplishments and acknowledgment of historical atrocities remains contentious.
Still, the KPRF’s push for the monument reflects broader sentiments among certain factions of Russian society, where nostalgia for the Soviet past provides rhetorical ammunition against perceived modern adversities. Egorov, advocating resilience through remembrance, stated, "The time has come to acknowledge and embrace the contributions made during Stalin’s time, fostering pride and courage as we face present and future challenges."
With the matter now before the Committee, it remains to be seen what form this commemoration will take and how it will contribute to the dialogue around history and memory amid Russia’s current socio-political climate.