In the Soviet Union, queues were common in many areas of life. For example, people had to stand in line for food, clothing, shoes, household appliances, books, housing, and medical services. Even when receiving documents or undergoing a medical examination at a clinic, people were required to stand in line.
The queues were due to a shortage of goods and services, which was caused by many factors, including an inefficient economy, sanctions from Western countries, and a government that placed a high premium on ensuring the country’s security.
Standing in line was not only tiring, but also time-consuming. People could spend several hours a day doing this. In addition, discipline in queues was very important and violation of queue rules could lead to conflicts and fights.
Despite all the inconveniences, queues in the USSR were also considered one of the manifestations of socialist justice. All citizens had the right to equal access to goods and services, and no one could bypass the queue or get something on a special request. They were also a place where you could meet old friends, talk to neighbors, and discuss the latest news.
There is an opinion that the USSR was the most reading country in the world precisely because of the queues. You had to do something in them. And, as luck would have it, there were no smartphones. You just had to read.