The Culture and Geography of The Former Soviet Satellite of Ukraine Free Essay Example, 1500 words

As a function of the megalomaniacal approach that the Soviet Union often took with the natural environment, the Dnieper River was damned at multiple places within the nation. This allowed for large reservoirs and lakes to be created that could then, in turn, feed the hydropower plants that are so numerous within the nation. This of course served to cause a great many environmental issues with the way in which the water resources of the nation have been redistributed and changed from their natural courses. Likewise, on can easily remember the Chernobyl disaster of 1986 which was the worst nuclear release in the history of the world and still continues to have profound and lasting impacts upon both Ukraine and the surrounding regions (Mohammed et al, 2011). The demographics of the nation indicate that the population stands around 45 million; making it the 29th most populous nation in the world and the 6th most populous nation in Europe. Despite a relatively high population, the n ation itself has been in the grips of a severe population decline since the collapse of the former Soviet Union. This population decline, although affecting almost each and every part of Europe, is especially profound in Ukraine due to the combined effect of low life expectancy, low birth rate, and high emigration rate. As a function of this, the central government has attempted to ebb this population reduction by offering a high number of birth incentive programs. Yet, the birth rate continues to remain below sustainment level. The issue of a declining birth rate would not be such a dire issue were it not for the fact that the nation suffers from a very high death rate. Although there are a number of factors that contribute to this, a lion s share of the death rate is directly linked to heavy smoking and alcoholism; both issues that continue to plague the nation. Though it may seem to the reader than an extensive understanding of the demographic situation is not required befo re delving into the way in which the nation seeks to house and provide for its people, the fact of the matter is that such an issue has a direct correlation to the need, demand. We will write a custom essay sample on The Culture and Geography of The Former Soviet Satellite of Ukraine or any topic specifically for you Only $17.96 $11.86/pageorder now