Russia's Demographic Crisis and the Military: Strategic Impact and Security Implications in the 21st Century
Abstract
Russia has been experiencing a natural population decline since 1992 and current demographic trends indicate few signs that this sharp and steady population loss will abate any time soon. The impact on Russian society, from its economy to security, continues to be the subject of heated and intense discussion and debate. Russia is plagued with a decreasing fertility rate, an increasing mortality rate, a deteriorating health care system, and unbalanced migratory patterns, each contributing factors to varying degrees to the continued political, economic, and social turmoil the country is facing. This paper examines the root causes of the demographic crisis in Russia, analyzing their impact on society and on the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. The demographic crisis in Russia limits the policy options available to its political and military leaders and creates confusion for the international community as to how it should deal with Russia as a major power on the world stage. The post-9/11 environment requires greater cooperation among nations to combat a growing number of transnational and asymmetric threats, including terrorism, insurgency, nuclear proliferation, and the trafficking of drugs and people. A strong and stable Russia is a critical component in the on-going efforts of the free world to re-shape the global security landscape to meet the new and emerging threats of the 21st century.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 13, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA494073
Entities
People
- Thomas J. Andrea
Organizations
- The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy