Soviet Asia: Economic Development And National Policy Choices

This work analyzes the geographic position of Soviet Asia in the USSR's economy and the impact of major national policy issues on its development and prospects. It is a vast territory that is still largely hinterland to the European USSR, with different regions playing different roles in the Soviet spatial system and being affected by different policy choices. There are contrasts between Moslem Central Asia and Siberia, as well as economic and strategic roles based on resource endowment, links to the European USSR, and strategic vulnerability.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 310 pages
Publication date: 29 July 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive study delves into the geographical significance of Soviet Asia within the broader economy of the USSR, examining the profound impact of major national policy issues on its development and future prospects. Spanning an immense area exceeding the combined size of Brazil and Australia, the Asian USSR constitutes a significant portion of the country's territory. This acquisition can be traced back to the Russian expansion and conquest over the past 499 years. However, despite its vastness, the Asian USSR remains an isolated and marginalized region within the European USSR, struggling to fully integrate into the country's economic and social fabric. Moreover, the Asian USSR displays a remarkable diversity, both culturally and geographically. Its regions assume distinct roles within the Soviet spatial system and are subjected to varying policy choices at the national level. On the one hand, there exist striking contrasts between Moslem Central Asia and Siberia (including the Far East). On the other hand, the Siberian regions are assigned different economic and strategic roles based on their resource endowment, their connections to the economic power centers in the European USSR (partly influenced by their east-west and north-south positions), and their strategic vulnerability or importance.

The acquisition of Soviet Asia was a result of Russian expansion and conquest over a period of centuries. The region encompasses a vast expanse of land, covering three-fourths of the country's territory. Despite its size, the Asian USSR remains largely an isolated and marginalized area within the European USSR, struggling to fully integrate into the country's economic and social fabric. The region displays remarkable diversity, both culturally and geographically. Its regions assume distinct roles within the Soviet spatial system and are subjected to varying policy choices at the national level.

On the one hand, there exist striking contrasts between Moslem Central Asia and Siberia (including the Far East). Moslem Central Asia is characterized by its Islamic culture, rich heritage, and close ties to the Middle East. It is home to a diverse population, including ethnic groups such as Kazakhs, Uzbeks, and Turkmen. Siberia, on the other hand, is known for its vast natural resources, including oil, gas, and minerals. It is home to a predominantly Russian population and has played a crucial role in the country's industrial and military development.

The Siberian regions are assigned different economic and strategic roles based on their resource endowment, their connections to the economic power centers in the European USSR, and their strategic vulnerability or importance. The Far East, for instance, is a region with significant economic potential due to its proximity to East Asia and its access to natural resources. However, it is also vulnerable to geopolitical tensions and environmental challenges. In contrast, the Central Asian regions, such as Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, are rich in natural resources but face economic development challenges and political instability.

The acquisition of Soviet Asia was a significant milestone in the history of the USSR. However, the region has faced numerous challenges since the collapse of the Soviet Union. One of the most pressing issues is the economic transition and diversification. The Asian USSR has been slow to modernize its economy and diversify its industries, relying heavily on traditional sectors such as agriculture and mining. This has led to high unemployment rates, poverty, and social unrest in many regions.

To address these challenges, the Russian government has implemented various policies aimed at promoting economic development and diversification. These policies include investment in infrastructure, education, and technology, as well as support for small and medium-sized enterprises. The government has also sought to promote cultural exchange and cooperation between the different regions of the Asian USSR, recognizing the importance of diversity and unity in the country's development.

Despite these efforts, the economic transition and diversification in the Asian USSR have been slow. The region continues to face challenges such as high unemployment rates, poverty, and social unrest. Moreover, the legacy of Soviet-era policies and infrastructure has left many regions in need of repair and modernization.

In conclusion, the acquisition of Soviet Asia was a significant milestone in the history of the USSR. However, the region has faced numerous challenges since the collapse of the Soviet Union. The economic transition and diversification have been slow, and the legacy of Soviet-era policies and infrastructure has left many regions in need of repair and modernization. The Russian government has implemented various policies aimed at promoting economic development and diversification, but more work needs to be done to ensure the region's sustainable and inclusive growth.

Weight: 570g
ISBN-13: 9780367303600