The state of the nation - fine words, but will they have any effect?

[Peter Morley (Russia Profile Discussion Group)]

So did Putin's speech include any surprises? And will any of the laudable measures he announced - higher child benefit, etc. - actually have any effect? And why did accounts outside Russia focus mainly on the "Comrade Wolf" comment, which was more of a throwaway line than anything else?

 

Vladimir Frolov: Putin's New Deal

 

http://www.russiaprofile.org/politics/2006/5/11/3684.wbp

 

Ben Aris: Quo Vadis, Putin?

 

http://www.russiaprofile.org/cdi/2006/5/11/3687.wbp

 

Translation of Putin's speech

 

http://www.russiaprofile.org/cdi/2006/5/10/3690.wbp

 

RIA Novosti: Nation must focus on demographics, economy

 

http://www.russiaprofile.org/politics/2006/5/10/3683.wbp

 

Putin lashes out at 'wolf-like' America

 

http://www.guardian.co.uk/russia/article/0,,1772175,00.html

 

Putin's address: expectations and risks

 

http://en.rian.ru/analysis/20060512/48040631.html

[MHN Parée]

The main problem facing Russia today is of demographics-

How could this be solved or at least attempted to be solved. No doubt
there are a lot of high thinkers and think tanks. My views are that a
three-pronged approach may work to certain extent -

1. Making it easier or optional for all foreign students enrolled in
Russian universities to avail of the Russian green card scheme...

2. Inviting females especially singles, irrespective of class and
creed, in the age range of 16 to 50 for all such jobs/occupations,
which have high demand like nurses, teachers, lab workers etc. The
application and visa fees could be relaxed.

3. Highly qualified workers and factory laborers could be put into the
highly favored class.

Thanks