63% of Russians don't believe in politicians’ genuine religious feelings while participating in traditional Orthodox services.

      Right before the celebrating of Orthodox Easter in Russia, Kremlin-connected Public Opinion Foundation (FOM) conducted a poll about politicians and their attitude to religion. According to it, only 18% of respondents said they believed in politicians’ religious devoutness. The majority of Russians are sure the politicians attend Orthodox events only to seem closer to their potential supporters and voters. 

      The people's suspicion is not so unjustified. Many Russian political figures started their career back in atheist Soviet times and then just adapted to new Russian realities.

      Among the respondents most skeptical about officials’ religious views are the residents of large cities (77%), people with higher education (73%) and those whose monthly income exceeds $700 (76%), according to FOM website. The same opinion has the supporters of Russian parliamentary opposition (over 70%).

      Another FOM's survey shows that majority of Russians don't plan to watch the traditional public TV-liturgy on Easter night (51%). Men refuse watching such programs oftener (60%), than women (40%).

      The survey was held on April 7-8 among 1,500 respondents in 43 Russian regions. 

Sources: FOM website newsru.com RIA Novosti Image: kurs.ru