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Number of reform opponents in Russia dwindling - poll

MOSCOW. April 13 (Interfax) - The number of people opposing democratic reforms and market changes in Russia has dwindled over the last four years.

Corruption among the ruling elite is the largest snag in reforms, said 42% of the 1,600 Russians polled by Yury Levada's Analytical Center at the end of March. In March 2000, this opinion was shared by 47%.

Nearly one-third (30%) of respondents believe the reforms are poorly planned, compared to 45% in 2000. Nearly one-fourth (24%) believed a shortage of competent and professional authorities in government is the worst problem, while every fifth respondent (21%) thinks market relations are incompatible with the Russian way of life. This percentage has decreased by just one percentage point since four years ago.

The number of people who believe the course of reform is wrong has dropped significantly, from 25% to 16%.

The total number of responses exceeds 100% because the same person could give several answers to each question.