Various experts from both NATO and non-NATO countries have expressed diametrically opposite views on the development of Russia. They were polled within the framework of the annual Valdai Index (Russian Development Index), compiled by the Valdai International Discussion Club since 2009.
Western experts assessed Russia’s development negatively (-0.4), while other experts pointed to positive trends (+0.4).
“Complications on the international stage and the information warfare launched against Russia over the crisis in Ukraine have obviously influenced the opinion of not only the general public and politicians, but also Western experts. Other countries have a much more quiet view of the crisis and hence their experts offered a more realistic assessment,” said Pavel Andreev, Executive Director of the Foundation for Development and Support of the Valdai Discussion Club.
Experts from 23 countries agree that Russia’s economic development pace has decreased by 0.8 points due to the geopolitical situation. However, they also see internal reasons behind this negative trend.
“The promised reforms have not been implemented, the state continues to play a big (and possibly growing) role in the economy, and small businesses are in limbo or falling. Inadequate investment in education, healthcare and infrastructure may have a lasting negative effect on future growth,” said one of the polled experts, as cited by a report that has been distributed on the sidelines of the 11th annual meeting of the Valdai International Discussion Club, which is underway in Sochi.
Despite the crisis in Ukraine, the experts provided positive assessments for questions within the category, Russia in the System of National, Regional and Global Security. They highly assessed the professionalism of Russian military personnel and efforts to strengthen Russia’s defenses, as well as the country’s influence on the international response to security challenges in Syria, Iran and Afghanistan.
Experts believe that President Putin is the key resource for Russia’s development. Putin’s growing weight in the country’s political system, his efficiency and the growth of the people’s trust in him were assessed at +1.5.
The Valdai Club polls its experts every August to compile a Russia Development Index, also called the Valdai Index, which assesses the country’s development pace compared to the preceding year. The marks range from “–3” (significant deterioration) to “+3” (significant improvement). Zero indicates an absence of change.
