Russia Suspends Population Census Amid Rising Casualties in Ukraine

Russian leader Vladimir Putin has enacted a federal law suspending a critical aspect of the All-Russian Population Census. According to Newsweek, this decision has been interpreted by some analysts as an attempt to obscure the demographic consequences of ongoing military casualties in Ukraine.

The newly implemented law, effective until January 1, 2029, halts a key section of the census legislation that required regular federal statistical observations covering a minimum of five percent of the population.

Approved by the Federation Council on September 25, 2024, the suspension has not been accompanied by clear guidance from Russian officials on how they intend to compensate for the lack of up-to-date demographic data. The implications of this suspension may extend to international organizations and businesses that rely on accurate demographic statistics for market analysis and forecasting.

While the suspension is set to conclude in 2029, it remains uncertain whether further modifications to Russia’s census process will occur during this timeframe.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported of Russian combat losses from February 24, 2022, to October 5, 2024. The total estimated losses include approximately 659,220 personnel, alongside significant losses in military equipment:

• Tanks: 8,916

• Armored Fighting Vehicles (AFVs): 17,658

• Artillery Systems: 19,037

• Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS): 1,216

• Anti-Aircraft Systems: 970

• Aircraft: 368

• Helicopters: 328

• Operational-Tactical Level UAVs: 16,529

• Cruise Missiles: 2,613

• Warships/Boats: 28

• Submarines: 1

• Vehicles and Fuel Tanks: 25,905

• Special Equipment: 3,344