Part 6/10:
Within Russia, Putin has even controversially ordered Russians to use breaks at work to procreate, an odd policy reflecting the severity of Russia’s demographic decline. Overall, demographic dynamics remain a core focus for Moscow, with experts suggesting that Putin aims to consolidate the Slavic core of Russia by leveraging these population shifts.
Democracy on the Decline Globally
In addition to conflicts and demographic upheavals, a concerning trend has emerged worldwide—democratic governance is experiencing significant deterioration. According to a recent report by the International IDEA (International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance), 2023 saw the largest decline in credible elections and parliamentary oversight in nearly half a century.