Avtonoma

Avtonoma (Russian: Автонома) is a Russian word with roots in Greek (αὐτονομία). It translates directly to "autonomy" in English. In the context of Russian politics and social sciences, it often refers to a region, community, or entity possessing a degree of self-governance. The extent of this self-governance can vary greatly depending on the specific situation and the legal framework in place. The term can also be used more broadly to describe the concept of independence and self-determination in various contexts, mirroring the English usage of "autonomy."

The concept of avtonoma is particularly significant in Russia due to its complex federal structure, which incorporates various autonomous regions, republics, and districts. These entities are granted certain rights and powers to manage their own affairs, often related to their unique cultural identities, languages, and economic resources. However, the precise level of autonomy and its practical implementation remain subjects of ongoing political and legal discussions. The word emphasizes the right or power to self-govern rather than simply being self-governing.