Russia Under Pressure: What the Global Economic Crisis Means for Russia's Foreign Policy

After initially claiming to be a safe harbour in the global financial storm, Russia's leaders have admitted that the country has been badly hit by the global economic crisis. Like many countries, Russia faces rising unemployment and declining production. Unlike others, the Russian state depends for its legitimacy on steady economic growth and a great power image fuelled by high energy prices. As the economy contracts and this fragile social contract is undermined, the implications for Russia's domestic and international policy are troubling and unpredictable. This discussion will assess the impact of the economic crisis on Russia's foreign policy, and the implications for its relations with the UK and the new US administration.

Please note these Briefings are for MPs and peers only.