The Political Economy of Private Farming in Russia

This article argues that the key to understanding the future of private farming no longer should emphasize directives from the center. In contrast to a legalistic approach, this article argues that a correct understanding of private farming must take account of broader sociological, demographic, financial, and economic influences. Towards that end, this article explores the rural demographic situation, the popularity of private farming among the rural population, the potential of the land market to facilitate the expansion of private farm landholdings, and the impact of financial policies on private farms.