The Potential Influence of Russian Employers on Regional Demographic Trends

A new state policy in Russia aims to involve businesses in family and demographic issues. The importance of engaging enterprises in solving demographic problems is emphasized, as the state introduces re­levant regulations and incentives and publicizes results through the “Business Reputation Index of Business Entities (EKG-rating)”. Theoretically, these processes align with corporate citizenship theory, which posits that companies have an obligation to assume a share of responsibility proportional to their operational rights. This study examines how Russians of reproductive age view employers as potential influencers of demographic po­licy and how these views relate to their reproductive intentions. Data were collected in the autumn of 2023. The study found that 25 % of respondents believe that employer support for parents can increase birth rates in their regions. Overall, employers are seen to have a relatively minor influence on people’s reproductive attitudes. Those who appreciate employer support tend to delay having their first child. The perceived influence of employers is associated with an earlier ideal age for starting a family and a desire for more children. Moreover, those who see employers as influential tend to believe that having more children is essential for personal fulfillment. These findings suggest the potential for enhancing demographic policy by involving employers and underscore the importance of state policies that engage enterprises in regional demographic agendas.