Russia: Energy in the Regions

In 2006 and 2007 RWI provided financial support in collaboration with OSI to the Carnegie Center Moscow for research on energy and the regions in Russia. The project focuses particularly on the issues that have emerged in the regions as the Russian central government has re-asserted strong control over hydrocarbon resources, and particularly the impact on civil society development. This project takes a multi-stakeholder approach to examining the effects of Russia's energy resources on regional development by engaging local governments at the oblast level, energy companies active in the region, local politicians outside of government, journalists and local experts, and regional NGOs. Research and analysis will be complemented by on the ground meetings in a series of regions selected based on the diverse types of energy projects taking place in order to produce a comprehensive sample of lessons-learned. This project takes place at a particularly opportune time for RWI to broaden its base of strategic partners in Russia, and attempt to constructively engage various actors from government, the private sector and civil society on issues of extractive sector transparency and accountability, especially as the new NGO law continues to hamper the work of civil society organizations throughout the country.