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Significance

Millions of Russians (close to 10% of the population) still live in depressed 'monotowns' – single-factory (or single-industry) towns built in the Soviet era. Many monotowns are struggling to remain competitive in the heavily sanctioned Russian economy.

Impacts

To break free of chronic stagnation, Russia’s Soviet-era industrial infrastructure would need to be fully restructured.

The Kremlin relies on monotown firms to deliver votes for its chosen candidates at election time.

Major factory closures will continue to be avoided because of the danger of social and political instability.

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