As of 2021, the population of Russia stands at approximately 145 million people. This number makes Russia the ninth most populous country globally. However, it is worth noting that the population has been steadily declining over the past few decades. Various factors contribute to this decline, including low birth rates, high mortality rates, and emigration.
One of the primary reasons for the declining population in Russia is the persistently low birth rates. The total fertility rate, which represents the average number of children born to a woman in her lifetime, has remained below the replacement level of 2.1 since the early 1990s. Economic factors, changing societal norms, and increased access to contraception contribute to this trend. The government has implemented measures to encourage families to have more children, such as financial incentives and subsidies. However, it remains to be seen if these efforts will be enough to reverse the declining birth rates.
Another factor impacting the population of Russia is its relatively high mortality rate. While improvements have been made in recent years, life expectancy in Russia remains lower than in many developed countries. Alcoholism, tobacco use, and cardiovascular diseases are significant contributors to premature deaths in the country. Additionally, factors such as inadequate healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, and the persisting effects of the Soviet era healthcare system, pose challenges to improving life expectancy.
Emigration is another important element shaping Russia’s population numbers. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, many citizens sought opportunities abroad, resulting in significant emigration. Factors such as political instability, economic hardship, and the pursuit of better job prospects and living conditions have driven individuals to leave the country. Although emigration has slowed in recent years, it continues to have a substantial impact on the population dynamics.
Migration patterns within Russia itself also have an impact on population distribution. People from rural areas often move to larger cities in search of better opportunities. This internal migration, along with factors such as industrialization and urbanization, has led to the concentration of the population in specific regions. Moscow, the capital city, and the surrounding areas are major population hubs, with nearly 20 million residents. On the other hand, there are sparsely populated areas, such as Siberia and the Far Eastern regions, where the population density is significantly lower.
In conclusion, the population of Russia stands at around 145 million people, making it the ninth most populous country in the world. However, the population has been declining due to factors such as low birth rates, high mortality rates, and emigration. Efforts to reverse these trends, including incentives for more children, improving healthcare, and economic stability, are crucial for the country’s future. Understanding the complexities of Russia’s population dynamics is essential in formulating effective policies to address these challenges and ensure a prosperous future for the nation.