On December 24, 2024, the Institute for Advanced International Studies (IAIS) hosted an engaging session of Frontier Talks, featuring Mikhail Strokan, PhD, Assistant Professor at HSE University (Russia). The session, titled “Varieties of Post-Soviet Petrostates – Pathways to Mitigating the Resource Curse”, provided an in-depth analysis of the challenges faced by resource-rich countries in the post-Soviet space and offered valuable insights into sustainable development strategies.

Dr. Strokan’s presentation delved into the complexities of resource dependency and its impact on governance, economic diversification, and institutional reforms. Drawing on comparative analysis, he examined the varied experiences of post-Soviet states, highlighting key policy strategies and governance models that have shaped their trajectories. His research illuminated both the successes and setbacks of these nations, offering critical lessons for overcoming the pitfalls of the so-called resource curse.

The discussion centred on how resource-rich countries in the post-Soviet region can effectively harness their natural wealth to foster economic transformation and sustainable development. Participants explored themes such as energy policy, institutional resilience, and the role of international cooperation in mitigating resource dependency.

The event attracted a diverse audience of scholars, policymakers, and students with interests in political economy, energy policy, and post-Soviet studies. The lively Q&A session underscored the relevance of Dr. Strokan’s research to contemporary debates on resource governance and economic resilience.

This Frontier Talks session exemplified IAIS’s commitment to advancing scholarly discourse on critical global challenges. By fostering dialogue on the future trajectories of resource-rich nations, the event provided a platform for meaningful exchange and contributed to the broader understanding of sustainable development in the post-Soviet context.