Meaning: Anatoly Chubais, a prominent Russian politician and economist, made this statement reflecting on his experience within the city government during the tumultuous period of the 1990s in Russia. This quote sheds light on the challenges and complexities faced by Chubais and his team as they navigated the bureaucratic landscape at a local level. To understand the significance of this quote, it is essential to delve into the historical context of Russia during the 1990s and Anatoly Chubais's role in shaping economic and political reforms.

The 1990s was a period of profound transformation for Russia, characterized by the dissolution of the Soviet Union, economic liberalization, and the transition from a state-controlled economy to a market-oriented system. Against this backdrop, Chubais emerged as a key figure in the implementation of economic reforms, particularly through his involvement in privatization efforts and the restructuring of state-owned enterprises.

Chubais's reference to operating as bureaucrats on the local level highlights the practical challenges of governance and administration during this period. Local governments played a crucial role in implementing reforms and managing the complexities of the transition to a market economy. As part of the city government, Chubais and his team were tasked with navigating the intricate bureaucratic processes and addressing the practical realities of governance in a rapidly changing environment.

The mention of being the only ones in the whole Russian team experienced in practical bureaucratic management underscores the scarcity of expertise in navigating the complexities of governance and administration during this transformative period. The dearth of experienced bureaucrats and administrators capable of managing the intricate processes of governance in a transitioning economy posed significant challenges for those tasked with driving reforms and managing local government affairs.

Chubais's emphasis on the complicated conditions of 1990 further underscores the formidable challenges that he and his team confronted. The 1990s in Russia were marked by economic instability, social upheaval, and political turbulence as the country grappled with the ramifications of a rapid shift towards a market economy. Navigating these complicated conditions required a nuanced understanding of bureaucratic management and the ability to adapt to the evolving landscape of governance.

Overall, Chubais's quote encapsulates the intricate dynamics of governance and administration during a pivotal period in Russian history. It sheds light on the challenges faced by those responsible for driving reforms and managing local government affairs amidst the complexities of economic and political transformation. By highlighting the scarcity of experienced bureaucrats and the demanding conditions of the time, the quote provides valuable insights into the practical realities of governance during the 1990s in Russia.