Abstract
This article examines challenges for effective statebuilding in relation to welfare governance in Russia. The focus is the contested role of non-state commercial actors in outsourcing reforms of welfare for older people. The findings suggest that authorities recognise the necessity of reforming the welfare system and its governance in line with international principles but face challenges for developing an effective mixed economy of care while bolstering statebuilding in the post-Soviet context. The article draws critical attention to the role of healthcare reform in statebuilding efforts and draws inferences for the public health governance and statebuilding nexus in a post-Soviet country.