From Policy to Practice: Analyzing Russia’s Experience in Building World-Class Universities via Policy Documents

Since the 21st century, Russia has pursued the construction of world-class universities as a core reform goal in higher education, aiming to address the inadequacies of its post-Soviet higher education system in adapting to international competition. This study systematically examines the historical evolution, strategic framework, key characteristics, and practical challenges of Russia’s efforts over more than two decades. Russia’s practice has gone through three distinct stages: foundational construction (2003–2012), marked by joining the Bologna Process and establishing federal and national research universities; in-depth advancement (2012–2020), driven by initiatives such as the “5–100 Plan,” Global Education Program, and regional flagship universities; and adjustment and optimization (2020–present), represented by the “Priority-2030” plan. These efforts have formed a strategic framework centered on system construction, internationalization, balanced development, and operational support. Key characteristics of Russia’s practice include the integration of strategic stability and tactical flexibility, the complementarity of tiered and classified development, and the coordination of government leadership and university autonomy. However, challenges persist, such as underperformance in global rankings, insufficient funding, uneven resource distribution, and severe talent drain.