Repressive systems are apparently good for humour; the jokes are excellent. My current favourite, on how important ministries wound up led by sclerotic ideologues with no clue:

Chief Rabbi of Moscow synagogue dies. In atheist soviet times, party functionary, not congregation, picks replacement.

   Comrade Burns: Nu, who are candidates?
   Comrade Smithers: Well sir, we have comrades Flanders, Szyslak, and Rabinovich.
   Comrade Burns: Who is recommended?
   Comrade Smithers: Is toss up, sir. Comrade Szyslak is impeccable Party member,
     but knows nothing about religion. Dr. comrade Flanders
     has degree in religion, but not recommended by Party.
     Unfortunately, you have to decide.
   Comrade Burns: But what about —checks notes— comrade Rabinovich?
   Comrade Smithers: What? You can't appoint him, he's a jew!