Social difficulties: rising prices, declining living standards

Despite all the conditional “economic stability,” many Russians felt in 2023 a rise in prices, a decrease in purchasing power, and difficulties with access to some goods and services. Inflation, high loans, rising prices for utilities - all this put pressure on the population. It has been especially difficult for families with children, the elderly, people with low incomes and in regions where employment and income opportunities are limited. Many limited consumption, postponed plans, and saved on everything. Social tension grew: more and more people were asking the question: where is the country heading if GDP growth does not mean an increase in the well-being of the majority? 2023 was the year when the “economic successes of the country” did not coincide with the “economic stability of the people.” This raised questions about justice, resource distribution, and social policy.