Spanning across two continents and encompassing a wide array of climates and landscapes, Russia is the largest country on Earth. Its population, as diverse as its geography, is a unique blend of ethnicities, cultures, and traditions. This article provides a summary of the people that populate this vast nation, shedding light on their demographic composition, cultural mosaic, and societal structure.

As of the last census, Russia’s population is estimated to be over 140 million people, making it one of the most populous countries in the world. The population density is unevenly distributed, with the majority living in the European part of Russia, particularly in urban areas like Moscow, the capital, and Saint Petersburg. Siberia, known for its vast and rugged terrain, is sparsely populated in comparison.

The Russian Federation is a multinational state, home to over 190 ethnic groups. Ethnic Russians represent the largest group, making up 80% of the population. The remaining 20% comprises various ethnic groups, including Tatars, Ukrainians, Bashkirs, and Chechens, among others. Each group maintains its own language, culture, and traditions, contributing to the rich ethnic tapestry of the nation.

Russian is the official state language used in education, political administration, and public life. However, the country recognizes over 100 minority languages, with many of these languages being regionally official alongside Russian. This multilingual environment is a testament to the country’s cultural plurality.

Religion in Russia is predominantly characterized by the presence of the Russian Orthodox Church. Nevertheless, the country is religiously diverse, with significant numbers of Muslims, Buddhists, Protestant Christians, Catholics, and adherents of indigenous beliefs. Religious freedom is constitutionally guaranteed, allowing for a varied spiritual landscape across the nation.

Russian society is deeply influenced by family values, with extended families often maintaining close bonds. In more traditional settings, households may include several generations living together, whereas, in urban areas, nuclear families are more common. Despite the trend toward modernization and urbanization, traditional customs and communal relationships continue to play an important role in Russian life.

Russia is currently facing several demographic challenges, including a declining population due to low birth rates and high mortality rates in certain areas, particularly among men due to health-related issues. Migration both to and from Russia, as well as urbanization, are also impacting the population distribution and dynamics.

The population of Russia is as vast and varied as the land itself, characterized by a rich blend of ethnicities, languages, and traditions. While demographic challenges persist, the resilience and cultural vivacity of the Russian people continue to be defining features of this nation. Looking to the future, the people of Russia are the custodians of the country’s legacy and the architects of its destiny, charting a course through a complex web of history and culture that is unrivaled in its depth and breadth.