The role of a political leader facing modern challenges

The object of research is leadership as a multifaceted socio-political phenomenon. The purpose of the paper is to give a systematic idea of the role of a political leader in modern society. This study is also relevant for Russia, where there is a high degree of personification of political power. In the course of the research, the author uses scientific works and sources in Russian, English and Spanish. It is concluded that leadership is a mechanism of interaction between the leader and his followers (constituents). This mechanism includes three interrelated aspects - institutional, functional and symbolic. In modern society, the requirements for the personal qualities of a leader and his activities are increasing. A real political leader is a person who is able to understand the historical need for changes and implement them in accordance with the modern requirements.