Realized the other day that I've been subjected to years and years of propaganda about Russia and Putin. Even correcting for it a bit in my head, it still doesn't seem like an amazing place to live. But is it better or worse for the average Joe?

My impression is that its 2nd world. Lots of modern technology, but shitty and like 20 years behind. Not progressive in terms of LGBT or women's rights. Definitely not a democracy and basically run by plutocrats.

Anyone have personal experience there?

  • kilternkafuffle [any]
    ·
    4 years ago

    There's more immigration into Russia than emigration out of. Better-off Russians move to Europe/US, but everyone from poorer ex-Soviet republics, especially ethnic Slavs, but not just, move to Russia because they already speak the language and know the culture and it's closer.

    Mortality went through the roof in the 90s as people's lives collapsed, birth rates also fell as people aren't excited to bring up children in poverty. The situation has stabilized since, but just barely. That's the biggest impact on population figures, not immigration.