Even though the Russian economy has grown stronger over the last decade many who have directly benefited from this prosperity are still considering emigration. A survey conducted by the Levada Center indicates that nearly half of Russia’s middle class would consider emigrating either for a short period or permanently.

The poll conducted by the Levada Center targeted a specific demographic. It polled Russians who had a college education and were between the ages of 24 and 35. Those polled also had to live in the largest fourteen cities in Russia and their per capita income had to satisfy specific criteria.

These results seem to indicate an uncertainty and general feeling that their situations are not stable. The Nezavisimaya gazeta in response to the findings wrote “Many of the respondents believe that they cannot influence the political processes in the country and are prepared to use dishonest and unlawful means for the resolution of conflicts and problems. There readiness to give bribes and to use personal contracts is very high within the Russian middle class.”

Also questioned in the Leveada Center’s survey was why respondents were dissatisfied. 59 per cent of those surveyed responded that there was a high crime and aggression. Another 52 per cent noted poor health services. 86 per cent of respondents stated that they simply want to live a safe and stable lifestyle.

Another point of concern is that those dissatisfied are passing the opinion to their children with more than half stating they would prefer to send children abroad.

www.levada.ru/default_e.htm

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