There is a common misconception that people who speak Russian are only from Russia. However, Russian-speakers come from all over Europe and Asia. This is due to the fact that the Russian language was widely taught throughout the school systems of the 15 former Soviet Republics and Easter European countries (Poland, Chech Republic, Slovakia, Bulgaria etc.).

Russian is the most widely spoken Slavic language and is also one of the official languages of the United Nations. Russian expatriates lead active lifestyles by attending cultural events, traveling, participating in their community and keeping up-to-date on current events. These residents are well-assimilated, yet are eager to follow the latest political and cultural developments in Russia and pass on their language and culture to their children.

The majority of this population is bilingual, but generally prefers to speak Russian at home. Moreover, these people will turn to Russian-language publications for the latest news and information. Although they maintain strong ties with their heritage, this population is very open to new cultures. In addition to placing a high value on family, education is a top priority in their lives as you will see in the demographics information.

The average Russian-speaker is highly educated; works in a professional environment and as a group have one of the highest income levels of foreign-born residents. As with any ethnic group living abroad, the Russian-speaking population is more inclined to trust and be regular readers of publications in their native language.

The three editions of The West-East weekly Russian newspapers serve as a priceless resource for Russian-speakers as they achieve success in their new country and stay aware of what is happening in the world today. The rapidly growing Russian-speaking population in the United States and Canada (estimated at 6.5 million) is an ethnic consumer market with strong buying power and brand-loyalty.