Russia’s Approach to Post-Conflict Reconstruction

Soon after Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Vladimir Putin expressed Russia's commitment for the reconstruction of the war-devasted Eastern regions of Ukraine. It is surprising how little analytical and comparative literature exists about Russia's experience in post-conflict recovery despite its involvement in a large number of conflict areas, both as an intervenor and as a donor.Against this backdrop, this book explores the role of Russia in the reconstruction of a range of countries and territories including Crimea, the North Caucasus and Chechnya as well as Syria. Based on the author's three decades-long experience in research and engagement in post-conflict reconstruction, the book offers a valuable overview of the main lessons learned that will be of relevance to Ukraine. The case selection is not intended to offer an exhaustive account of all the recent or contemporary conflicts in which Russia has involved itself. Rather the cases have been selected to illustrate a range of interventions across different periods and geographical areas, highlighting the spectrum of Russian reconstruction policies and strategies.

Chapter One - Setting the Scene.- Chapter Two - Moscow’s response to post-war recovery in the aftermath of WWII.- Chapter Three - Russia’s unique approach as a (re)emerging donor.- Chapter Four - Intervention and reconstruction in the Caucasus: The cases of Chechnya, Abkhazia, and South Ossetia.- Chapter Five - Intervention and reconstruction in Syria.- Chapter Six - Ukraine: The context, the case of Crimea, and Moscow’s commitments to annexed territories.- Chapter Seven - Conclusion.