Could be solved the problems of social inequality? (results of analysis of focus-groups in Russia and Belarus)

Paper is based on the results of focus-groups carried out within the framework of comparative international project «Social Inequality and Why it matters for the Economic and Democratic Development of Europe and Its Citizens: Post-Communist Central and Eastern Europe in Comparative Perspective» (2006-2009). Paper is devoted to the analysis of ways of alleviation of social inequality in Russia and Belarus suggested by respondents. The economic and political means of social inequality’s softening are singled out and the role of social and political institutions in the lessening of social inequality in both countries is examined.