The recent terror attack in Moscow, the worst in 20 years, revealed shocking vulnerabilities despite the city's extensive surveillance and security measures. Armed attackers easily bypassed metal detectors at Crocus City Hall, highlighting the ineffectiveness of visible security. Moscow, touted as one of Europe's most securitized cities, faces heightened terrorism risks. The incident exposes the facade of Russia's security theater, emphasizing the need to address underlying weaknesses for genuine safety.

Since the deadly terrorist attacks during the Chechen wars, Russians have grown accustomed to uniformed guards and metal detectors at various locations, from transport hubs to small metro stations. However, the ubiquity of security personnel has led to public desensitization and indifference, while guards themselves often lack professionalism due to inadequate training and low pay. Many are inexperienced and perform their duties mechanically, often missing genuine security threats.

Instances of lax security are all too common, with individuals bypassing guards at airports, gated communities, and sensitive sites through various means, including bribery or simply appearing well-dressed. Conversely, bureaucratic hurdles can lead to absurd situations, such as being denied entry to an event due to paperwork issues or being unable to exit a secure building because of malfunctioning turnstiles. Emergency exits are often blocked to prevent queue jumping, highlighting the disconnect between security measures and practical safety concerns.

At international airports, the abundance of guards may foster complacency, as people rely on others to detect potential threats. Queueing at security gates can also create vulnerable crowds. Russia exhibits a lack of public awareness regarding security, evident from past terrorist attacks. There's a concerning culture of entrusting luggage to strangers and a tendency to downplay security risks. Additionally, police focus on easy targets in large cities, leading to issues like boredom, desensitization, and racial profiling.

The traditional role of a police officer has been reduced to that of a glorified security guard, with potential for abuse of power and corrupt relationships with superiors. This reflects a broader culture of hierarchy and passivity within Russian security ministries, where subordinates are discouraged from questioning orders or showing initiative. Corruption thrives upwards, while accountability diminishes downwards. Leadership is marked by distance and impunity, with responsibilities often delegated in unprofessional and unhelpful ways. Ultimately, the focus is on avoiding boredom and seeking opportunities for personal gain.

Subordinates in security agencies are discouraged from taking initiative or suggesting solutions, fostering a culture of passivity. This lack of proactive response was evident during the mutiny led by Yevgeny Prigozhin. Security agencies may neglect coordination and communication, assuming tasks are someone else's responsibility. There's a sense of entitlement and superiority among security personnel, fueled by the state's support. This dynamic is echoed in media portrayals, suggesting competition between security agencies resembling illicit business operations.

Russia's security structure upholds internal accountability, avoids collaboration, and places a higher priority on self-interest than other social values. But in the middle of all this chaos, regular people show courage by helping the less fortunate and making a positive contribution to society. This demonstrates how people may accept accountability and see themselves as members of a group that exists outside the borders of the state.

BOB Post