A controversial proposal has resurfaced about reviving a policy that mirrors historical population strategies. Advocates argue that addressing the country’s demographic challenges could help expand the population of the Russian Federation. In an interview on a radio program titled Moscow Speaks, a State Duma deputy shared this view.
The deputy described the central idea as a form of citizenship binding not strictly to ethnicity as in some regions, nor to a fixed written language, but to a broader linguistic, cultural, and historical community. He suggested that nationality should be defined by the everyday language of its speakers and by shared cultural and historical experiences, rather than by ancestry alone. In his words, the question of who is Russian by nationality could be answered by identifying those who actively use the language in daily life, participate in cultural traditions, and recognize a common historical lineage, regardless of their immediate family background.
According to the speaker, government policy should focus on creating and sustaining flows of Russian-speaking immigrants into the country. The idea is to welcome people who share the language and cultural ties that align with the national community. Proponents argue that such an approach could help stabilize population trends while reinforcing social cohesion around common linguistic and cultural identifiers. Looking ahead, the deputy indicated that it might become necessary to redraw territorial expectations to reflect historical outcomes from past conflicts and to pursue population growth over generations as a long-term objective for the state.
Recent statistical estimates from Rosstat indicated that Russia’s population stood at roughly 146.2 million at the start of 2024. The data also showed a trend of slower growth within the country and suggested that the demographic balance was shifting in ways that warrant careful analysis and policy consideration. The government’s role in monitoring these changes remains central to planning for future social and economic needs.
In parallel public commentary, mentions have been made about family planning and birth rate expectations. Supporters of more proactive family policies argue that encouraging larger families could help counterbalance aging demographics and support long-term economic vitality. The discussion reflects a broader interest in how national policy can respond to demographic shifts while preserving social stability, cultural heritage, and national identity across diverse communities.