Publication

This paper discusses the reasons for the poor economic position Russia is in at the beginning of 2015 and how Russia's policies under President Vladimir Putin have contributed to the country's economic situation. The author also examines 1) the likelihood for President Putin's administration to undertake reforms to address the problems within the economy and the country's political system; 2) how the foundations for the support of Putin's regime has changed since he entered office in 2012; and 3) the chances for a change in administration in the country and whether this could lead to reforms.