economy
Gini and its master. How Russian authorities manipulate statistics to hide record high inequality
Inequality in Russia has been growing for the third year in a row. In 2025, the incomes of the richest 10% exceeded the incomes of the poorest 10% by almost 17 times. And the main indicator - the Gini coefficient - was 0.422. This is a record figure, which indicates high social stratification.
TL;DR
- Russia's Gini coefficient reached a record high of 0.422 in 2025, indicating significant social stratification.
- Rosstat introduced a new calculation method for the Gini coefficient, considering taxes and regional prices, resulting in a lower figure of 0.375.
- This new methodology is criticized for masking the true extent of inequality, as it does not reflect real improvements in citizens' incomes.
- Factors contributing to rising inequality include high interest rates, uneven wage growth across sectors, and the economic impact of the war.
- Public perception surveys show a discrepancy, with official polls indicating a decrease in perceived inequality while independent studies reveal growing concern.
- Inequality in wealth (assets) is also a significant issue, with Russia ranking high globally in wealth disparity.
- The war economy is identified as a driver of further stratification, benefiting those involved in military contracts while leaving others behind.