DEMIS. Demographic Research

Anniversary Greetings for Mikhail F. Chernysh

Editorial Board — 2025-09-30

On August 26, 2025, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Doctor of Sociological Sciences, Professor Mikhail Fedorovich Chernysh celebrated his 70th birthday.

Analysis of Factors Affecting Family Formation and Birthrate in Russia’s Population

Marina P. Guryanova — 2025-09-30

The aim of this article is to analyze the factors that negatively affect family formation and the birth rate. This study is based on a local socio-educational study in Borovsk, Kaluga Region, as well as the author's long-term observation of the development of family institutions during 30 years of research at the Institute for Social Pedagogy at the Russian Academy for Education. The article also examines the experience of social workers in working with families, particularly those with social disadvantages, in their local communities. Using socio-educational research methods, this article analyses the main reasons for negative trends in marriages and birthrates. It describes best practices for preserving adolescent reproductive health, assisting families in maintaining child health, which should be disseminated and promoted in all regions of Russia. This paper presents the innovative experience of a regional public organization, "Family Institute," which has successfully operated in Krasnoyarsk with government support. It also proposes relevant socio-educational measures to increase the number of marriages, strengthen the family institution, and raise the birthrate. The significance of this research lies in its thorough analysis of factors affecting family formation, identifying factors influencing demographic trends, and its practical focus on improving the situation.

Motivational Aspects of Demographic Behavior of the Population in Post-Soviet Countries

Maria V. Roslavtseva — 2025-09-30

The article presents a comprehensive analysis of the relationship between human motivational activities, presented as key value orientations, such as attitude towards family, subjective health and life satisfaction, and key demographic indicators, such as fertility, mortality, marriage and divorce, natural growth, etc., in post-Soviet countries, based on World Values Survey (WVS) data and national statistics from 1990 to 2021. Pearson correlation coefficients have been calculated between the changes in various categories of responses to questions about value and changes in demographic indicators in countries of the Former USSR, including Russia, Ukraine, Armenia and Kyrgyzstan. The results indicate strong and statistically significant correlations between changes in well-being and demographic trends, such as increased birth rates and decreased mortality, when family values strengthen and life satisfaction increases. Conversely, weakening traditional attitudes leads to demographic decline. Mechanisms underlying these relationships are discussed in the context of second demographic transition theory. Results are compared to international studies using WVS data, suggesting the importance of population value systems as a motivational basis for success in state demographic policies, as there is a statistical correlation between values and resulting demographic behaviors. This conclusion extends to measures related to not only reproductive attitudes and birth rates, but also subjective well-being, self-preserving behaviors, and other demographic outcomes.

All-Union Censuses of 1959–1989 as a Source of Historical and Demographic Data on the Urban Population

Odon B. Dashinamzhilov — 2025-09-30

This article analyzes the content of four All-Union Population Censuses (1959, 1970, 1979 and 1989) using methods of internal criticism and comparative analysis of sources. The analysis includes systematized data stored in state archives across the country and statistical compilations published for official purposes. The study found that the censuses were an accurate source of statistical information. The proportion of people not counted declined and did not exceed 0.4 percent of the total USSR population. Information about regions and republics was not always accurate due to policies of the government to hide information about certain categories of population, such as military personnel, KGB agents, and workers in certain industries. This paper suggests a method for estimating population growth based on Soviet data and the 2002 Russian census. Increments were small in Russia as a whole and were greatest in areas with closed cities. They had little impact on estimates of natural growth and migration, except in the period 1989-1991. Most census data is available for research in central and local archives and some libraries, but some information may be missing or not transferred from departments to archives. The Russian State Archives of Economics have the most comprehensive data. Some statistics have been published, including collections for official use, which are valuable. The results allow scientists to understand trends in population numbers, social classes, ages, genders, ethnicities, and dynamics during this period. In future, it may be possible to create specific tables for each census with detailed information.

Satisfaction of Older Russians with Primary Healthcare

Elena V. Zemlyanova — 2025-09-30

Projects aimed at improving the health and quality of life for older citizens are being implemented in Russia. This requires the development of assistance types focused on medical services for elderly people. Primary healthcare plays an important role here. The aim of the study is to evaluate the satisfaction of Russian elderly people with outpatient care. Statistical data from the sample survey on the quality and availability of services in education, healthcare, social services, and employment promotion conducted by Rosstat in 2021 and 2023 were used as a basis for the study. The results are presented in summary tables for individuals over working age. About two thirds of elderly Russians visit public clinics for medical care. In 2021 and 2023, 36.3% and 31.5% of elderly people were completely satisfied with outpatient care, respectively. Some older Russians have difficulty calling an ambulance. Emergency medical assistance for the elderly serves not only as a medical service, but also as an important social service. However, there are significant differences in accessibility and satisfaction levels of medical care across Russian regions. To successfully implement the federal project "Older generation", it is necessary to conduct more extensive sociological studies on the problems faced by this population group to promptly identify and address them.

The Social Dimension of Integration Processes in Eurasia: The Scientific Contribution of G. I. Osadchaya

Egor Yu. Kireev — 2025-09-30

This article attempts to understand the scholarly contributions of Doctor of Sociology Professor Galina I. Osadchaya to the study of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). The subject of this study is the conceptualization of sociological Eurasian integration as developed by Professor Osadchaya. The article covers key areas such as public perception of EAEU integration, migration processes, social memory among youth, and value foundations for consolidation. The purpose of this article is to systematically analyze Professor Osadchaya’s contribution to the sociology of EAEU integration based on a chronological analysis of her scientific work from 2012 to 2022. The study aims to assess the significance of her contributions for understanding social aspects of EAEU integration. A hypothesis of this research is that Professor Osadchaya’s work laid the groundwork for an interdisciplinary approach to analyzing EAEU, shifting focus from economic metrics to social factors for successful integration. This research methodology involves analyzing scientific publications by Professor Osadchaya and her team (2013-2019). Results of this work show that Professor Osadchaya developed a sociological framework for measuring social performance in EAEU through a system of metrics. She also developed the concept of "human dimensions" in integration, arguing that economic reform requires consideration of population adaptation. Additionally, she classified key challenges such as imbalances in youth perceptions of EAEU, gender aspects in migration, and contradictions in historic memory. Professor Osadchaya’s other contributions include institutionalizing the scientific study of integration processes within the EAEU framework through the Scientific Council of the Russian Academy of Sciences and international projects. The authors particularly note the research principles of Galina I. Osadchaya, based on sociological dimensions of integration processes, a focus on empirical research through survey methods, and the importance of using scientific results in the development of EAEU social policy, optimization of migratory regulation, and Eurasian integration educational programs.

Geodemographic Processes among the Russian Population of Post-Soviet Armenia

Sergey Ya. Suschiy — 2025-09-30

The objectives of this study are to investigate the demographic dynamics of Russia's population in post-Soviet Armenia, to analyze the relationships between natural reproduction and migration, and to record changes in the age, sex, and settlement patterns of the Russian-speaking community. A systems approach was employed in this complex study, using demographic, ethno-geographical, and sociological methods. It has been established that a period of rapid decline in the Russian population took place in the 1990s when the number of Russian speakers in Armenia decreased three-fold (from 51,500 to 14,700). In the early 2000s the rate of decline slowed down (-18,8%) but then increased again. At the end of 2010, in three of ten regions, the proportion of Russians was less than 0.1% and in four more it was between 0.1 and 0.2%. Most Russian settlers lived in two established villages (Lermontovo and Fioletovo). Migration was a major factor in the ongoing depopulation, but its contribution to the overall decline decreased from 98–99% in the late 1980s to around 75–80% in the early 1900s. Natural losses and assimilation also contributed to population decline, especially due to high rates of inter-ethnic marriage among Russian women with local men. The decline was accompanied by changes in sex and age structures, with a significant female predominance and an increase in median age. The trend of depopulation was reversed by the arrival of a new group of migrants, who increased from 20,20 to 2040. This group consisted mainly of young and mid-aged males, which helped to balance the gender imbalance and age distribution of the Russian diaspora. Migrants were concentrated in Yerevan, which became a demographic center with over 90%, compared to 40% in previous decades. The future of this group remains uncertain, but their arrival has already had a significant impact on the demographics of Armenia.

Migration Policy as an Instrument of US Innovative Leadership

Kirill A. Abramyan — 2025-09-30

Human capital is a key factor in the global leadership of the United States in the innovation sector. Relying solely on domestic resources to ensure the quantity and quality of highly skilled labor necessary for the development of advanced technology is insufficient. This paper analyzes the role and tools of immigration policy as a means of ensuring the United States’ innovative leadership. A well-designed, selective immigration policy has become a crucial factor in attracting and maintaining a steady flow of talent from all over the world. Highly qualified foreign professionals working in high-tech sectors are concentrated in innovation hubs such as Silicon Valley in California and the Boston area, significantly enhancing the economic performance of companies. Through a complex and tiered visa system, the United States aims to attract and retain scientific and skilled workers. Additionally, the privilege of acquiring a green card and American citizenship further enhances the attractiveness of the country. However, the restrictive measures on migration introduced by the current administration may potentially hinder the competition for skilled foreign talent, potentially leading to a loss of the US’s leading position in innovation.

On the Issue of Expanding the Concepts of Non-Migration and (Im)Mobility

Svetlana N. Mishchuk — 2025-09-30

In modern studies of migration, the most common approach emphasizes the primary importance of migration and its effects. Given the insufficient level of detail in the terminology used to describe the sedentary populations in Russian research, this article aims to define within the demographic framework the meaning and scope of a term used in Russian scientific literature to describe populations living in an area and not moving from it. The study is based on an analysis of publications by foreign and Russian authors on migration and its absence. This research is a continuation of the author's work on the issue of population immobility. The paper argues that mobility and immobility are not mutually exclusive but rather represent two aspects of the same process. In today's context, (im)mobility should be regarded as a complex, dynamic process with multiple determinants, including actors and objects, forces and factors that drive it. This paper supports the need for incorporating the concept of liminality into the study of concepts such as "migration" and "non-migration" or "mobility" and "immobility." In the context of demographic processes, the author proposes the term "immobility," which captures the continuity of residence over time and integrates the concepts of migratory mobility and immobility. The article organizes data on groups of people living in the area and proposes a classification of mobile and immobile populations based on the aspiration/ability model.

Factors of Population Migration in the Russian Far East: Spatial and Age-Related Characteristics

Evgeniya M. Moiseeva — 2025-09-30

The article examines spatial and age-related characteristics of migration in the Far Eastern region of Russia. The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of various factors, such as socio-economic conditions, infrastructure, climate conditions, on population movements in different age groups within the region. The research focuses on analyzing migration flows in the Russian Far Eastern regions and their dependence on spatial and demographic characteristics. The study is based on statistical data from Rosstat for the period 2019–2021. The main findings show that there are significant differences in migration patterns among different age groups. For example, young people (20–24 years old) tend to migrate more than older people (65–69 years old). This trend is explained by economic factors such as income levels and cost of living. Young families with children are also more likely to move due to material incentives. However, younger people (15–29 years) are less likely to migrate because they focus on education opportunities. Living conditions in the region, including health care, infrastructure development and climate conditions, play a significant role in determining whether people will stay or leave. Regions with better living conditions tend to have lower rates of outmigration. Additionally, there is a spatial effect where neighboring regions influence each other's migration patterns. Economic factors have the greatest impact on migration in areas with strong economies, while social and infrastructure factors are more significant in less developed regions. This study contributes to a better understanding of how migration patterns are shaped by various factors in the Far Eastern part of Russia. Its findings can be used by policymakers to develop strategies for optimizing demographic and migration policy in this region.

Mechanisms for the Adaptation of Foreign Labor Migrants in the Far East Federal District

Sergey M. Voinov — 2025-09-30

This article provides an overview of the adaptation mechanisms for foreign labor migrants in Russia in the context of current demographic trends. The aim of this study is to analyze mechanisms that facilitate effective adaptation to living conditions for migrants, particularly in the Far Eastern region. It argues that a well-developed and methodically sound migration policy aimed at adaptation could help optimize the distribution of migrants across the country and prevent conflicts between migrants and local communities. The study shows that despite the stated goal of facilitating adaptation for foreign citizens in Russia's State Migration Policy Concept for 2019-2025 (2018), the lack of comprehensive implementation of these mechanisms leads to migrants maintaining previous forms of engagement and failing to adapt to Russian society. According to data from Rosstat, as of late 2022, there are approximately 2 million potential beneficiaries of adaptation programs in the Far East who require attention from migration policy actors; however, a poorly developed institutional structure for migrant integration (including lack of quantifiable metrics) limits its effectiveness and hinders integration into host societies. This increases the risk of unrealized migration potential, social fragmentation, and public distrust in migration policies. This research is based on analysis of Russian laws related to migration adaptation mechanisms as well as analysis of works directly or indirectly related to issues of migrant adjustment in Russia and specifically in the Far East region. This study could contribute to developing a systematic approach to addressing migrant needs.

Migration Attitudes of Moscow and Belgorod Residents with Unconventional Religious Beliefs

Irina V. Lyutenko — 2025-09-30

In a context of geopolitical instability, migration attitudes are changing. This necessitates research on groups with unconventional beliefs, such as those who practice or do not practice unconventional religion. A study was conducted in Moscow and Belgorod in 2014 to examine the migration sentiments among Muscovites, Belgorod residents, and other groups. The groups were divided into two categories: “practitioners,” who have unconventional consciousness and engage in rituals, and “nonpractitioners,” who only have non-conventional religious beliefs but do not participate in the practices associated with those beliefs. The results showed that “practitioners” are more interested in non-conventional and esoteric teachings, especially in Moscow, which has a higher general interest in these beliefs. In Belgorod, “practitioners” are more involved in ritualistic activities. The study also found that those planning to migrate are mostly “practitioners,” while those considering staying within the country are more often “nonpractitioners.” “Practitioners” often migrate due to social issues in their current location, while “nonpractitioners” focus on economic factors when considering migration. In Belograd, “practitioners” have a stronger motivation to migrate, driven by factors such as social, family, and work-related issues. Overall, the study suggests that “practicioners” are more active participants in migration, focusing on leaving for social and political reasons, while “nonpractitioners” may be more likely to move within the country for economic reasons. The level of involvement in religious practices also influences the intentions of these two groups.

Russian-Vietnamese Socio-Demographic Studies: Directions and Results

Sergey V. Ryazantsev — 2025-09-30

This article examines the research conducted in sociology and demography by Russian and Vietnamese scholars in recent decades with the support from the Russian Foundation for the Humanities, Russian Foundation for Basic Research, Russian Science Foundation, and Vietnamese Academy of Social Sciences. Seven key areas of research were identified, including studies on migration, diaspora, emigration of Russian speakers, and socio-demographic effects of climate change, as well as the main findings of these projects. Achievements in Russian-Vietnamese collaboration in demography and sociology are also discussed, along with key challenges and recommendations for future cooperation in humanities and social science.

The Formation and Beginning of the Working Life of the Pre-War Generation: A Demographer’s Memories

Anatoly V. Topilin — 2025-09-30

This article presents a demographic and biographical study of the life trajectories of the pre-War generation born in the 1940s. The author, who is a member of that generation, analyses its development against a backdrop of significant historical events, such as the Great Patriotic War, the post-war period, the collapse of the Soviet Union, and contemporary transformations. The research is based on statistical analysis of census data from 1950 to 2010 and the author’s personal experiences. The paper examines in detail demographic losses among generations during different historical periods, including war years (from 1939 to 1960), peacetime years (1970-1980), and post-Soviet years (after 2000). Special attention is given to socio-demographic changes, such as changes in generation size, influence of historical events on demographic trends, and specificities of professional development paths. The author also describes her own professional journey in demographic research, which includes work at the Central Economics Research Institute under State Planning Commission of the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic and development of research interests in population migration.