ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses the issue of internal party conflict and suggests that the departure of some of its best known figures does not indicate a party riven by factions. It examines the issues of membership and funding. In contrast with Yabloko's regional organisation, it will be argued that the party's organisation at the federal level is highly institutionalised and centralised. From an organisational perspective, the party model chosen by Yabloko was entirely appropriate. Lacking an established regional organisation and the resources to rapidly develop a network of local party branches, the creation of a highly institutionalised and centralised party organisation was the only rational option available. A large membership helps to boost a party's legitimacy, allowing party to portray itself as a popular organisation. Members provide a direct electoral benefit, being easier to mobilise than uncommitted supporters. The cohesion and discipline of Yabloko’s Duma faction is a better indicator of the party’s unity than are the instances of internal conflict.
