The Conflict in Ukraine: Ecological, Demographic and Social Aspects

Abstract

Sergei V. Jargin

All provinces of Ukraine voted for independence in the 1991 referendum. The borders were recognized by other nations, including Russia. Admittedly, a majority of residents in the southern and eastern parts of Ukraine are Russian-speaking; many of them were disappointed that their region had not become a part of the Russian Federation. Some Russian-speaking areas may become parts of RF if the citizens really want it. A workable solution must be found by means of negotiations. The conflict in Ukraine hindered environmental policies in Europe and elsewhere. The conflict between two major agricultural countries has negative impact on the global food supply. As food prices rise, some nations are likely to cope by converting forests to fields. International tensions and conflicts are reasons to boost childbearing in Russia and some other countries. The military needs young people. The necessity of birth control has been obfuscated by conflicting national and global interests; the population growth being regarded as a tool helping to the national sovereignty and defense. The demographic growth contributes to scarcity of fresh water in many regions. The energy for desalination could be supplied by nuclear power plants. Obviously, a durable peace is needed, since nuclear facilities are potential war targets. Large projects could be accomplished by the unified humankind to improve the quality of life all over the world.

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