The Political Economy of Russian Oil

(Paperback)

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One of the dominant export-oriented industries in Russia, oil is a major source of tax revenue and wealth. The privatization of these vast assets has made the industry a site not only for conflict between power holders but also a strategic target for international corporations and Western governments. In this thoughtful analysis, a group of international specialists explores the political and economic issues and controversies surrounding the oil industry's move to capitalism. The authors examine the spread of crime and corruption, the role of Russian and Western financial institutions, regional tensions, and the international dimension. As a paradigm for the Russian economy as a whole, the case of oil industry provides invaluable insights for understanding the political and economic problems confronting Russia today.

Reviews

This revealing volume offers considerable insight from the perspective of the oil industry. . . . Well worth reading by all who might seek to understand the reasons behind the underperformance of the Russian economy and society during the 1990s. * Slavic Review *
For those seeking clues regarding the weak economic performance of Boris Eltsin's Russia, this revealing edited volume offers considerable insight from the perspective of the oil industry. Sociologists and political scientists in particular should find much value in this work. Economists and energy-sector business analysts will also read this book with great interest. Students, both graduate and undergraduate, and from many disciplines, will benefit from exposure to these quite readable and sensible contributions. * Slavic Review *
So much is played close to the chest in contemporary Russia that it is difficult to get information, let alone interpret it. The study that David Lane initiated and has editied is therefore particularly welcome. The players and their games are much clearer than they were. The whole book is a useful study. It is both informative and thought-provoking on its declared subject. It also contributes to a clearer understanding of Russian society in transition. * Seer *
The future of Russian oil is one of the most intriguing subjects in international oil affairs at the beginning of the new millennium. * The Journal Of Energy Literature *

Author Bio

David Lane is reader in sociology and fellow of Emmanuel College, Cambridge University.