In Moscow's Shadows

In Moscow's Shadows 179: Sex, Drugs & Rocky Roads

Dec 15, 2024

This discussion dives into the lesser-known troubles plaguing Russia, like demographic decline and the rising mephedrone epidemic, all exacerbated by ongoing conflicts. We learn about the government's questionable family policies facing a backdrop of geopolitical tension. The conversation also reveals crumbling infrastructure's role in economic decline, spotlighting deteriorating air travel safety and railroad issues. Lastly, it critiques the state's focus on flashy projects while neglecting essential connectivity, leaving isolated communities in the lurch.

52:24

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Quick takeaways

Russia's demographic decline, primarily driven by war and emigration, indicates a looming threat to national stability and societal cohesion.

The methadrone epidemic illustrates a significant public health crisis, exposing failures in drug policy and the need for better societal support services.

Deep dives

Demographic Decline and Diversity

Russia is facing a significant demographic decline, with projections predicting a population decrease to between 74 and 112 million by 2100, down from approximately 146 million today. This decline is attributed to various factors, including low fertility rates and the impact of war, which has led to increases in mortality and emigration, especially among younger populations. The result is an aging population that is becoming more ethnically diverse, although many Russians view this diversification negatively, often leading to increased xenophobia. Despite previous warnings from President Putin about the demographic crisis, efforts to reverse these trends have been limited and largely ineffective.

Intro

5min

Demographic Dilemmas and Societal Strains in Russia

27min

The Crucial Role of Infrastructure in Russia's Economic Development

5min

The Crisis of Transportation in Russia: A Closer Look at Air and Rail Safety

2min

Infrastructure Challenges and Economic Implications in Russia

13min

We tend to focus on the big challenges facing Russia: war, sanctions, the struggle of authoritarianism vs the remnants of civil society. Maybe it is time to look at some of the less often discussed problems that nonetheless characterise the emerging Russian 'polycrisis': demographics, the mephedrone epidemic, and crumbling transport infrastructure: sex, drugs and rocky roads.

The OSW report on demographics I mentioned is here; the Global Initiative report on drugs is here.

My IWM podcast on Syria with Misha Glenny and Eva Konzett is here.

The podcast's corporate partner and sponsor is Conducttr, which provides software for innovative and immersive crisis exercises in hybrid warfare, counter-terrorism, civil affairs and similar situations.

You can also follow my blog, In Moscow's Shadows, and become one of the podcast's supporting Patrons and gain question-asking rights and access to exclusive extra materials including the (almost-) weekly Govorit Moskva news briefing right here.

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