Publication

This edition of the RAD assesses the economic risks and opportunities for Putin’s fourth term as President. Firstly, Emily Ferris argues that regional administrations are likely to play an increasingly important role in decision-making as Russia continues its efforts to attract investment in its Far East, although diplomatic disagreements will ensure that such investment remains restricted. Secondly, Ben Aris suggests that the regime faces a tough task in its efforts to develop a new economic model based on investment and innovation, because the population want this change to be gradual, rather than rapid. The result, he posits, is likely to be a hybrid model of introducing competition into the economy, but leaving the state in control of the main levers of power.