The organisation and functioning of the regional Council of women during the Perestroika period (1985-1991) in Smolensk region

The reformation period (Perestroika) was characterized by uprising of mass mobilisation and social movements. It was a period of new political, cultural, social and socio-psychological possibilities for the appearance of social movements in regions. The article describes creation of the women's movement in the Soviet Union during the Perestroika period and the activities of the Women's Unions in Smolensk Oblast. Council of women was a social organization established to protect interests and dignity of women's position in society, enhance their role in socio-political, economic and cultural life.