Fiscal Decentralization: Intergovernmental Relations in Russia.

摘要

The design of a well-functioning intergovernmental fiscal system is the key to Russia's macroeconomic stability, structural adjustment, provision of a social safety net during the difficult transition to a market economy, and political cohesion. Macroeconomic stability cannot be achieved without fiscal balance at both the subnational and the national levels. The study examines fiscal decentralization and intergovernmental fiscal relations. It describes and analyzes the current system in Russia and makes recommendations for its reform. It also addresses the very divisive issues of how to share the potentially huge revenues from natural resource taxes in Russia as prices rise to world levels. And it highlights the important role the intergovernmental system can play in reducing political tensions.