A Study of Russia’s Demographic Problems in the Twenty-First Century

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ABSTRACT Russia today faces acute demographic problems, which have been the focus of government policy and media attention. Since studies of population migration are a special topic of demography that requires a separate analysis, the article focuses on the problems of natural population change. In the scientific literature, the study of Russia’s demographic problems represents a distinct perspective. The experts are well versed in the subject and can address nuances that are overlooked “from the outside.” Many social scientists are critical of the government’s attempts to solve Russia’s demographic problems. Government achievements are often downplayed because they have not been completely successful. First, although Russia’s mortality rate has declined for most of the twenty-first century, it is still high when compared to most European countries. Second, although Russia’s birth rate is higher than in most European countries, it is still below the world average. These two facts have both positive and negative interpretations. Nevertheless, all demographic projections indicate that Russia’s population will continue to naturally decline in the coming decades. To solve this problem, it is necessary to research new approaches and develop new demographic policies, which are possible only through the combined efforts of all Russian demographers, despite their theoretical and practical disagreements. The national project Demography and related programs can help address these problems only if the proposed policies are scientifically studied and adapted to real Russian conditions.