RUSSIA

Russia the largest country in the world, occupies one-tenth of all the land on Earth. It
spans 11 time zones across two continents (Europe and Asia) and has coasts on three
oceans (the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic).
The Russian landscape varies from dessert to frozen coastline, tall mountains to giant
marshes. Much of Russia is made up of rolling , treeless plains called steppes. Siberia,
which occupies three-quarters of Russia, is dominated by sprawling pine forest called
Taigas.
Russia has about 100,000 rivers, including some of the longest and most powerful in
the world. It also has many lakes, including Europe’s two largest: Ladoga and
Onega. Lake Baikal in Siberia contains more water than any other lake on earth.

CAPITAL CITY
The actual name of the city in Russian is "Moskva". When the city was founded in 1147 it
was called 'Moskov" which sounded closer to the present-day English pronunciation.
The city was named after the Moskva river, on which the city is
situated. Finno-Ugric tribes used to live on the territory of the
present-day Moscow. The name of the Moskva river most
probably originates from an ancient Finnic language. According
to different theories the name of the city might mean 'marshy
place', 'dark waters', ´mossy plain´, 'gnat' but linguists cannot
come to any agreement and those theories haven't been proven
yet.
Moscow has never changed its name. Lots of cities in Russia
had different names in different times (St Petersburg - Leningrad
, Stalingrad - Volgograd etc). Moscow is a very unclear name
but maybe it's even better. Noone ever wanted to call it in a
different way.

It's interesting to know the origin of some

well-known Russian words and during your Moscow tours you'll
hear lots of interesting stories.

RUSSIA / PEOPLE
The population of Russia is spread out unevenly across the country.
About the two-third of the people live in European Russia, which cover
about a fourth of the land. European Russia has an average about 85
persons square mile (33 persons per square kilometer). Asian Russia
averages only 16 person per square mile (6 persons square kilometer).
There are about 120 ethnic groups in Russia who speak more than a
hundred languages. Roughly 80 percent of Russians traces their ancestry
to the Slavs who settled in the country 1,500 years ago. Other major
groups includes Tatars, who came with Mongol invaders and Ukrainians.
Russia is known all over the world for its thinkers and artists, including
writers like Leo Tolstoy and Fyodor Dosteovsky, composers such us
Pyotrllyich Tchaikovsky, and ballet dancers including Rudolf Nureyev.

POPULATION

According to the latest surveys, the population of Russia is as follows:

Total population : 146,325,513(2023)
Male population: Approximately 1,304,087(2023)
Female population: Approximately 1,898,644(2023)

NATIONALITIES AND LANGUAGES

Russia’s people have many different backgrounds and speak many

different languages. The Soviet census lists over 90 nationality groups in
Russia. They are identified mainly by the language they speak. Soviets
republics are set up on the basis of nationality groups carry their names
such as Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic and Latvian Soviet Socialist
Republic.

RELIGION

Religion in Russia is diverse, with a majority of Russians identifying

themselves as religious. According to a 2017 Gallup poll, 61% of
Russians regard themselves as religious. The most common religion in
Russia is Orthodox Christianity, which is followed by about 71% of the
population. This can be traced back to at least the year 988 when it was
introduced in Russia under the governance of Prince Vladimir of Kiev.
The second most common religion in Russia after Orthodox Christianity
is Islam. It is followed by around 15% of the population. The majority of
Muslims in Russia are Sunni, with a significant minority of Shia Muslims
as well. The Tatar and Bashkir populations of Russia predominantly
practice islam
Approximately 10% of the Russian population practices Islam. This
translates to around 15 million Muslims in Russia. It's important to note
that these numbers do not include the estimated 4-5 million migrant
workers, predominantly from Central Asia, who practice Islam.

CULTURE AND TRADITION

Russian culture is rich and diverse, shaped by its long history,

geographical expanse, and diverse ethnic groups. Here are some key
aspects of Russian culture and traditions:

1. Language: The official language of Russia is Russian, which is widely

spoken throughout the country. Russian literature, poetry, and theater
have made significant contributions to world culture.
2. Cuisine: Russian cuisine is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes.
Some popular traditional dishes include borscht (beet soup), pelmeni
(dumplings), blini (pancakes), and beef stroganoff. Tea is a beloved
beverage in Russian culture, often accompanied by sweets and pastries.
3. Folklore and Traditions: Russian folklore plays a significant role in the
culture, with tales of mythical creatures like Baba Yaga and folklore
characters like Ivan the Fool. Traditional folk dances, such as the famous
Kalinka and Troika, are also an integral part of Russian culture.
4. Arts and Literature: Russia has a rich artistic heritage, with renowned
painters like Ivan Shishkin and Wassily Kandinsky, and composers like
Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff. Russian literature has produced world-
famous authors such as Leo Tolstoy, Fyodor Dostoevsky, and Anton
Chekhov.
5. Holidays and Celebrations: Russians celebrate various holidays and
traditions throughout the year. Some notable celebrations include New
Year's Eve, Orthodox Christmas, International Women's Day, and Victory
Day (commemorating the end of World War II).
6. Traditional Clothing: Traditional Russian clothing includes the sarafan
(a pinafore-style dress) for women and the kosovorotka (a traditional
shirt) for men. However, modern-day Russians typically dress similarly to
people in Western countries.
7. Architecture: Russian architecture is diverse, ranging from ancient
structures like the Kremlin in Moscow to the colorful onion domes of
Orthodox churches. The famous St. Petersburg is known for its elegant
baroque and neoclassical architecture.

1. Matryoshka Dolls: Matryoshka dolls, also known as Russian nesting

dolls, are a popular traditional Russian souvenir. These wooden dolls are
hollow and contain a set of smaller dolls inside, each fitting into the next
one. They are often beautifully hand-painted and depict traditional
Russian themes.
2. Russian Cuisine: Russian cuisine is known for its hearty and
comforting dishes. Some popular traditional Russian foods include
borscht (beet soup), pelmeni (dumplings), blini (thin pancakes), and beef
stroganoff. Tea is also a significant part of Russian culture, and it is often
served with a variety of sweets and pastries.
3. Russian Folk Dance and Music: Traditional Russian folk dance and
music are an integral part of the country's cultural heritage. The
traditional dances, such as the Kalinka and the Troika, are characterized
by energetic movements and colorful costumes. Traditional Russian
music often features instruments like the balalaika and accordion.
4. Russian Orthodox Christianity: The Russian Orthodox Church is the
largest Christian denomination in Russia, and its traditions play a
significant role in the country's culture. Religious holidays and rituals,
such as Easter and Christmas, are celebrated with great enthusiasm across
the country.
5. Russian Winter Festivals: Winter holds a special place in Russian
culture, and various festivals and traditions are associated with this
season. The most famous winter festival is Maslenitsa, also known as
Pancake Week, which marks the end of winter and the beginning of
spring. It is celebrated with outdoor activities, traditional games, and the
consumption of blini (pancakes).
6. Traditional Clothing: Traditional Russian clothing includes garments
like the sarafan (a long, sleeveless dress), kokoshnik (a headdress worn
by women), and ushanka (a fur hat). These clothing items are often
adorned with intricate embroidery and reflect the cultural diversity of
different regions in Russia.
GOVERNMENT
Russia is a federal semi-presidential republic, which means it has a mixed
system of government with both presidential and parliamentary elements.

1. Head of State: The President of Russia is the head of state and holds
significant executive powers. The president is elected by popular vote and
serves as the chief executive, responsible for the overall governance of
the country.
2. Executive Branch: The executive branch of the Russian government
consists of the President, the Prime Minister, and the Cabinet of
Ministers. The President appoints the Prime Minister, who is the head of
government, and the Cabinet members.
3. Legislative Branch: The legislative branch of Russia is a bicameral
parliament known as the Federal Assembly. It consists of two chambers:
the State Duma (lower house) and the Federation Council (upper house).
The State Duma has the primary responsibility for passing laws and
representing the interests of the people.
4. Political Parties: Russia has a multi-party system, but the dominant
party is United Russia. Other significant political parties include the
Communist Party, the Liberal Democratic Party, and the Just Russia
Party.
5. Judiciary: The judiciary in Russia is independent and separate from the
executive and legislative branches. The Constitutional Court is the
highest judicial body in the country and is responsible for interpreting the
constitution and resolving constitutional disputes.

EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM

Russia has a well-established educational system that encompasses

schools, colleges, and universities. Here's an overview of the educational
system in Russia:
1. School Education:
- Primary Education: Primary education in Russia starts at the age of 6 or
7 and lasts for four years.
- Basic General Education: Following primary education, students enter
basic general education, which consists of grades 5 to 9. This stage
provides a comprehensive curriculum covering various subjects.
- Secondary Education: Secondary education in Russia includes grades 10
to 11. Students can choose between general education or specialized
education, focusing on specific subjects or fields of study.
2. Vocational Education:
- Vocational Training: Vocational education in Russia prepares students
for specific professions and trades. It offers practical skills and
knowledge required for various industries.
- Technical Schools: Technical schools provide specialized vocational
training in fields such as engineering, mechanics, electronics, and more.
3. Higher Education:
- Universities: Russia has a strong network of universities offering
undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.
Some of the renowned universities include Lomonosov Moscow State
University, Saint Petersburg State University, and Novosibirsk State
University.
- Colleges and Institutes: In addition to universities, Russia has colleges
and institutes that provide specialized education in specific fields such as
technology, arts, medicine, and more.
- Degrees: Higher education in Russia typically leads to bachelor's,
master's, and doctoral degrees. The duration of study varies depending on
the program and level.
4. Grading System: The Russian educational system uses a 5-point
grading scale, with 5 being the highest and 2 being the lowest passing
grade.
5. Education Reforms: In recent years, Russia has been implementing
educational reforms to enhance the quality of education, promote
innovation, and align with international standards.

It's important to note that the educational system in Russia can vary in
some aspects depending on the region and specific institutions. Russia is
home to several prestigious universities known for their academic
excellence and research contributions. Here are some of the top
universities in Russia:
1. Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU): Established in 1755,
MSU is one of the oldest and most renowned universities in Russia. It
consistently ranks among the top universities in various global rankings
and offers a wide range of disciplines.
2. Saint Petersburg State University (SPbU): Founded in 1724, SPbU is
one of the oldest and largest universities in Russia. It is highly regarded
for its programs in humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences.
3. Novosibirsk State University (NSU): NSU is a leading research
university located in Novosibirsk. It is known for its strong emphasis on
science and technology and is particularly renowned for its programs in
physics, mathematics, and computer science.
4. Bauman Moscow State Technical University (BMSTU): BMSTU is
one of the leading technical universities in Russia, offering programs in
engineering, aerospace technology, and other technical fields. It has a
long history dating back to 1830.
5. National Research Nuclear University MEPhI (Moscow Engineering
Physics Institute): MEPhI specializes in nuclear physics, engineering, and
related fields. It is recognized for its contributions to nuclear research and
technology.
6. Higher School of Economics (HSE): HSE is a prominent university
with a strong focus on economics, social sciences, and humanities. It is
known for its research and expertise in these fields.
7. Tomsk State University (TSU): TSU is a comprehensive university
located in Tomsk, Siberia. It offers a wide range of programs and is
recognized for its research activities.
CURRENCY

The currency of Russia is the Russian Ruble (RUB). Here's some

information about the paper money and coins used in Russia:

Paper Money:
- Denominations: The paper money in Russia comes in various
denominations, including 10, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000, and 5000
rubles.
- Design: The design of Russian banknotes features notable figures from
Russian history, landmarks, and cultural symbols. Each denomination has
its unique design elements.
Coins:
- Denominations: Coins in circulation in Russia include 1, 2, 5, and 10
rubles.
- Design: The designs on Russian coins also showcase important figures,
landmarks, and symbols. The front side typically displays the
denomination and the Russian coat of arms.

It's worth noting that the appearance and design of Russian currency may
change over time due to updates and new releases. The Central Bank of
Russia is responsible for issuing and regulating the currency in the
country.

ECONOMY

Russia has a market economy, with enormous natural resources,

particularly oil and natural gas. It has the world’s ninth-largest economy
by nominal GDP and the sixth-largest by PPP. The large service sector
accounts for 62% of total GDP, followed by the industrial sector 32%,
while the agricultural sector is the smallest, making up only 5% of total
GDP. Russia has low official unemployment rate of 4.1%. It’s foreign
exchange reserves are the world’s fifth-largest, worth $540 billion. It has
a labor force of roughly 70 million, which is the world’s sixth-largest.
Russia is the world’s thirteenth-largest exporter and the 21 st largest
importer. It relies heavily on revenues from oil and gas-related taxes and
export tariffs, which accounted for 45% of Russia’s federal budget
revenues in January 2022, and up to 60% of it’s exports in 2019. Russia
has one of the lowest of external debt among major economies, although
its inequality of household income and wealth is one of the highest
among developed countries. Russia has a natural resource-rich economy
and is a leading exporter of energy to Europe and Asia. However, the
economy has faced challenges such as endemic corruption, the Ukrainian
invasion, and a lack of green infrastructure, which have limited
investment and led to sanctions.

PRODUCTIONS
Russia has a rich and diverse range of local products that are produced
within the country. Here are some notable local products of Russia:
1. Vodka: Russia is famous for its production of vodka, a distilled
alcoholic beverage made from fermented grains or potatoes. Russian
vodka is known for its high quality and is a significant part of Russian
culture.
2. Caviar: Russia is renowned for its production of caviar, which is made
from the roe (eggs) of sturgeon fish. Beluga, Ossetra, and Sevruga are
some of the well-known types of caviar produced in Russia.
3. Matryoshka dolls: Matryoshka dolls, also known as Russian nesting
dolls, are wooden dolls that are hollow inside and can be nested within
one another. These intricately painted dolls are popular traditional
Russian souvenir.
4. Samovar: A samovar is a traditional Russian metal container used to
heat and boil water for making tea. It has a spigot at the bottom for
pouring the hot water and is often found in Russian households and tea
rooms.
5. Russian fur hats: Russian is known for its cold climate, anf fur hats,
such as the ushanka, are a traditional headwear choice to keep warm.
These hats are made from various types of fur, including fox, mink, and
rabbit.

Russia imports a wide range of products from various countries. Some of

the top imported products of Russia including:
1. Meat of horses
2. Stainless steel bars and rods
3. Embroidery in the piece
4. Raw furskins
5. Polymers of vinyl acetate
6. Fishing of vessels
7. Cycle parts and accessories
8. Textile products for specific technical uses
9. Milk
10. Knit and lace hats

The top exported products of Russia include:

1. Crude petroleum
2. Natural gas
3. Aluminum
4. Gold
5. Coal
6. Refined petroleum
7. Wheat
8. Pharmaceuticals
10. Diamonds

INDUSTRY/COMPANY
Russia has a mix of private and government-owned companies and
industries across various sectors.
Private Companies:
1. Gazprom: A private company involved in the exploration, production,
and marketing of natural gas.
2. Lukoil: A private oil and gas company engaged in exploration,
production, refining, and marketing of petroleum products.
3. Sberbank: The largest private bank in Russia, offering a wide range of
financial services.
4. Yandex; A private technology company known for its search engine,
online services, and e-commerce platforms.
5. M.Video-Eldorado: A leading private retail company specializing in
consumer electronics and household appliances.
GOVERNMENT-OWNED COMPANY:
1. Rosneft: A state-owned oil company involved in exploration,
production, refining, and marketing of petroleum products. 2. Russian
Railways: A state-owned company responsible for the operation and
maintenance of the Russian railway network.
3. Aeroflot: The national airline of Russia, majority-owned by the
government.
4. Rostec: A state-owned technology corporation involved in various
sectors, including defense, aerospace, and industrial manufacturing.
5. Rosatom: A state-owned nuclear energy corporation responsible
nuclear power plant operations and nuclear technology development.

ECONOMIC GLOBALIZATION
IMPORTED PRODUCTS:
1. Machinery and equipment: Russia imports machinery and equipment
for various industries, including manufacturing, construction, and
agriculture.
2. Vehicles: Automobiles, trucks, and other vehicles are imported into
Russia to meet the domestic demand.
3. Electronics: Consumer electronics, computer hardware, and electronic
components are imported into Russia.
4. Clothing and textiles: Apparel, fabrics, and textile products are
imported to cater to the fashion and textile industry in Russia.
5. Food and beverages: Russia imports a variety of food products,
including fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy products, and beverages.
EXPORTED PRODUCTS:
1.Energy resources: Russia is a major exporter of oil, natural gas, and
coal to various countries around the world.
2. Metals and minerals: Russia exports metals such as steel, aluminum,
cooper, and minerals like gold, diamonds, and nickel.
3. Aerospace products: Russia exports aerospace equipment, including
aircraft, satellites, and rocket systems.4. Arms and defense equipment:
Russia is one of the largest exporters of arms and defense equipment in
the world.
5. Agricultural products: Russia exports agricultural commodities such as
wheat, barley, corn, sunflower oil, and fish products.

SOCIAL GLOBALIZATION
Globalization is a complex and interconnected process that involves the
integration of economies, societies, and cultures on a global scale. As a
state, Russia has made significant contributions and participations to the
process of globalization.

TRADE AND ECONOMIC INTEGRATION:

One of the key contributions of the Russian state to globalization is its
active participation in global trade and economic integration. Russia’s
accession to the World Trade Organization (WHO) in 2012 marked a
significant step towards opening up its economy and adhering to global
trade rules. The state has also signed numerous bilateral and regional
trade agreements, promoting economic cooperation and market access
with other countries. These efforts have facilitated increased trade flows,
foreign direct investment, and economic growth, contributing to the
overall process of globalization.

ENERGY EXPORT:
Russia’s position as one of the world’s largest exporters of energy
resources, particularly oil and natural gas, has played a crucial role in
global energy markets and the process of globalization. Its participation
in the global energy market has contributed to energy security and
stability for many countries. The state’s energy exports have not only
influenced global energy prices but have also fostered economic
interdependence and cooperation among nations.
FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT:
Russia has actively attracted foreign direct investment in various sectors,
which has contributed to globalization. The state has implemented
policies to encourage FDI, such as providing investment incentives,
improving the rights of foreign investors. This has facilitated technology
transfer, job creation, and economic development in Russia, while also
promoting global economic integration and cooperation.
TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS:
Technological advancements play a crucial role in the process of
globalization, and Russia has actively contributed to scientific research
and development. With a focus on sectors such as space exploration,
nuclear energy, and defense technology. Russia’s technological
advancements have global significance. Its achievements in these fields
contribute to scientific knowledge, technological progress, and innovation
worldwide, further driving the process of globalization.
The contributions and participations of the Russian state to globalization
are diverse and significant. Russia actively engages in the process of
globalization. These efforts contribute to economic growth, technological
progress, cultural exchange, and global cooperation. As globalization
continues to shape the world, the Russian state’s role in facilitating and
participating in this process remains crucial.

POLITICAL GLOBLIZATION
Russia’s engagement in political has been shaped by various factors,
including historical developments, geopolitical considerations, and the
country’s evolving relationship with the international community. Over
the years, Russia has become more integrated into global political
networks, participating in international organizations, and engaging in
diplomatic efforts to address global challenges.

POLITICAL AFFILIATION:
The dominant political party in Russia is the United Russia party, which
is considered to be aligned with the current government. United Russia
has a majority in the State Duma, the lower house of the Federal
Assembly of Russia. It espouses a center-right ideology and supports the
policies and initiatives of the government. Other political parties in
Russia include the Communist Party of Russian Federation, the Liberal
Democratic Party of Russia, and the A Just Russia Party, which represent
different political ideologies and provide alternative voices in the political
landscape.

ADMINISTRATION:
The government of Russia operates under a semi-presidential system,
where the President is the head of state and the Prime Minister is the head
of government. The President is elected by popular vote for a six-year
term and has significant executive powers. The Prime Minister, appointed
by the President, leads the government’s day-to-day operations.
The President sets the overall direction of the country, makes key
decisions, and represents Russia on the international stage. The Prime
Minister, along with the Cabinet of Ministers, is responsible for
implementing government departments. The government of Russia has a
hierarchical structure, with federal, regional, and local levels of
administration. Regional governments, headed by governors, have
authority over local administration, education, healthcare, and
infrastructure development within their respective regions.
Russia’s engagement in political globalization is evident through its
participation in international organizations and institutions. It actively
engages in global governance by participating in international
negotiations, treaties, and agreements on various issues such as climate
change, human rights, and security. Russia’s involvement in these global
forums allows it to contribute to shaping global norms, regulations, and
frameworks.
Political globalization has had an impact on Russia’s political landscape,
as evident in its participation in international organizations, engagement
in global governance, and alignment with global norms and standards.
The dominant political affiliation of the United Russia party and the
administration of the government under a semi-presidential system reflect
the country’s political structure and decision-making processes. As
Russia continues to navigate the dynamics of political globalization, its
political affiliation and administration will play a crucial role in shaping
its engagement with the international community and addressing global
challenges.
Question: What are the highlight of the presentations?
The highlight of the presentation is that Russia is the largest country in
the world by land area. Located in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia, it
spans across eleven time zones and shares borders with multiple
countries, including Norway, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Belarus, Ukraine,
Georgia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, China, Mongolia, and North Korea.
It is known for its breathtaking landscapes, ranging from the vast Siberian
plains to the picturesque Caucasus Mountains. It is home to numerous
natural wonders, including Lake Baikal, the deepest freshwater lake in the
world, and the Kamchatka Peninsula, famous for its volcanoes and
geysers.
And economically, Russia is a major player on the world stage. It is rich
in natural resources, including oil, gas, and minerals, which contribute
significantly to its economy. It is also a leading producer and exporter of
weapons and military equipment. A visit to Russia is sure to leave a
lasting impression.

RUSSIA

IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE COURSE

REQUIREMENTS GE 105
(CONTEMPORARY WORLD)

2nd Semester, School year:2023-2024

Submitted by:
1. Asula, Baby Jaina A.
2. Bagsican, Nathaly-Airine L.
3. Ibbon, Carmela A.

Submitted to: Asst.Prof.Abdulbasik A. Hawang

May 16, 2024 (Date)