Creation and the activity of the first nonformal motions during the Perestroika period (1985-1991), basing on the example of Smolensk oblast

This article considers the establishment and operation of the first informal organizations and movements in the Soviet Union during the Perestroika on the territory of Smolensk Oblast. The author classifies the informal movements during the adjustment period of their existence. The work reveals the relationship between local party organizations with the newly created informal movements. It is concluded that during the Perestroika emerged massive social movements supported the democratic reforms undertaken in the country and the region. It was the period of new opportunities for the appearance of the local social movements. The restructuring was the period of formation of new models of political behaviour, a period of mass political participation and creation of new political institutions and associations of Smolensk and the Smolensk region citizens, their participation in the alternative elections.