How the Population of Post-Soviet Countries Has Changed in 33 Years of Independence
Since the collapse of the USSR, the populations of post-Soviet countries have experienced dramatic shifts. For example, Kazakhstan’s population grew by nearly 4 million, while Uzbekistan added 17 million people. Azerbaijan almost doubled its population. On the other hand, countries like Moldova experienced significant declines, with the population dropping from 4.3 million to 2.4 million.
Countries with Population Growth
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Uzbekistan
- Growth from ~20 million (1991) to ~37 million (2024).
- Key factors: high birth rates and low emigration levels.
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Azerbaijan
- From ~7 million in 1991 to ~10 million in 2024.
- Growth driven by economic improvements and demographic stability.
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Kazakhstan
- Population increased by nearly 4 million: from 16.3 million (1991) to ~20.3 million (2024).
- Contributing factors include the repatriation of ethnic Kazakhs and high birth rates.
Countries with Population Decline
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Moldova
- Sharpest decline: from 4.3 million (1991) to 2.4 million (2024).
- Causes: mass emigration and low birth rates.
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Ukraine
- Population dropped from 52 million to under 35 million (excluding emigrants).
- Conflicts, migration, and a demographic crisis are major contributors.
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Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia
- Decreased by 20-30% due to migration to EU countries.
Key Factors Affecting Population Change
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Economic Conditions
Economic growth or stagnation directly impacts birth rates and migration. -
Conflicts and Political Instability
Wars and political tension drive emigration. -
Migration Trends
Mass emigration from low-income countries to more developed regions.
Takeaways
- Post-Soviet countries display vastly different demographic trends.
- Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan are leaders in population growth.
- Moldova and Ukraine are among the hardest hit by population decline.
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