Best TV interpretation or documentary on international affairs
AWARD DATE: 2000
AWARD NAME: The Edward R. Murrow Award 2000
AWARD RECIPIENT: Sherry Jones, Martin Smith, David Fanning, Michael Sullivan
AWARD RECIPIENT AFFILIATION: Washington Media Associated for Frontline/ WGBH Boston
AWARD HONORED WORK: “Return of the Czar”
Starting in June, 1991, when Boris Yeltsin gained power, this piercing account of the errors and miscalculations made in the name of transforming Russia is compelling. To contain the growing economic chaos following one failed Western-backed experiment after another to move to free-market capitalism, Yeltsin resorted to increasing authoritarianism and crony capitalism that encouraged rampant corruption. President Clinton, however, continued to support the autocratic Yeltsin with loans, goodwill, and bad advice. The story ends with the first days of President Putin and the sad and troubled spirits of the Russian people, who see no better future for themselves, only hopes for their children.
Citation(s) for Excellence:
William Cran, Greg Barker
Frontline/WGBH Boston
“The Survival of Saddam”
George Crile, Vivian Schiller, David Rubin
CNN Productions
“Rehearsing Doomsday”