Since the demise of communism, Russia has become increasingly disparate. Some regions have grown in strength while others have been less successful. This book examines regional patterns of economic change in Russia by addressing questions such as:Is Russia a single economic area?Why are regional economic inequalities increasing?Are there significant regional differences in the economic regime? What influence do leaders have in their own regions, and on federal economic policies?To what extent do central policymakers affect regional outcomes?How are Russian regions affected by their new openness to foreign trade and investment?Based on research carried out by an international and interdisciplinary group of experts, this book analyses case studies from eight regions as well as testing hypotheses on data for the 77 main administrative regions. It will be of immense value to academics, those working for government and non-government agencies, and business people.