Reading statistics
It's never easy to extend one set of statistics to a whole political system, but they often offer glimpses of the system. IF you can "read" the numbers. Life in Vladimir Putin's Russia explained in 10 charts Vladimir Putin has dominated Russian politics as its undisputed leader for almost two decades. Over successive terms as president and prime minister he has overseen an economic boom, military expansion and the re-establishment of Russia as a major power. Living standards for most Russians improved, and a renewed sense of stability and national pride emerged. But the price, many say, was the erosion of Russia's fledgling democracy. How has life changed for ordinary Russians during this time? 1. Fewer people are poor Levels of poverty may be significantly lower than before, but Russia is still above the average for many of the world's biggest economies. 2. But wage growth has stalled recently During Mr Putin's first stint as president, wages consistently...