Political risk indicators and criteria: operationalization of concepts

The paper considers the problem of using the terms “indicator” and “criterion” in the context of political risk analysis. It presents a number of available definitions. The practice of using these terms in scientific research, in particular, in risk analysis, is also studied. It is established that there is a “terminological anarchism”, which does not allow us to come to the use of specific definitions. In this regard, the author puts forward the thesis that in such conditions, when analyzing political risks, it is permissible to use these terms in those meanings and ratios that meet the tasks set by the researcher. At the same time, the author considers the separation of these concepts more effective in the analysis of political risks since they embody different functions within the framework of such a study.