The word "nepman" is a term that was used in the Soviet Union to describe a black market trader. The spelling of this word is based on the phonetic transcription of the Russian word "neppmen" [nʲɔpˈmʲen], which is a combination of "nep" (an abbreviation for the New Economic Policy) and "men" (a shortened version of the word "trader"). The "nepman" played a significant role in the Soviet economy during the 1920s and 1930s, as the state struggled to establish a functioning market-based system.
Nepman is a noun that refers to a term used in Russian and other Soviet Union countries to describe an individual who engages in nepotism or utilizes personal connections and favoritism to gain an unfair advantage in business or political affairs. The term is derived from the Russian word "nepot" (nephew), which historically denoted the practice of people in power favoring their relatives or friends for influential positions or business opportunities.
In contemporary usage, a nepman typically represents someone who acquires wealth and success through corrupt or illegitimate means, such as bribery, disregard for laws and regulations, or exploiting political connections. A nepman is often associated with an unscrupulous businessperson who flouts ethical standards and sidesteps fair competition in order to secure economic advantages.
The term can also carry negative connotations linked to the moral decay associated with opportunism and the erosion of social values. It is often used in a critical sense, highlighting the negative impact nepotism and unscrupulous practices can have on societal trust, economic growth, and equality.
With its historical roots in the Soviet Union, the term nepman has transcended geographical and cultural boundaries, becoming a popular phrase to describe individuals engaging in unfair or corrupt practices across different contexts.
The etymology of the word "nepman" is derived from the Russian language. The term "nepman" (нэпман) emerged during the period of the New Economic Policy (NEP) in Soviet Russia, which was an economic policy implemented from 1921 to 1928.
The NEP allowed for a limited form of private enterprise, as the Soviet government loosened its grip on the economy after the devastation caused by the Russian Revolution and the subsequent Civil War. During this time, small-scale merchants, traders, and speculators emerged, who engaged in private businesses and trade activities. These individuals became known as "nepmen" (singular: "nepmanin", feminine version), which is an abbreviation of "NEP-man", indicating their involvement in the NEP's economic activities.