Book excerpt: Based on in-depth statistical research, this study analyses the main patterns of resettlement of over four million migrants in the Russian Federation since the collapse of the Soviet Union. Among other issues, the report examines regional preferences of returning refugees and forced migrants and their choice between resettlement in urban or rural areas. The research concludes with a discussion of major factors influencing the process and the direction of recent migratory inflows, such as the country of origin and the ethnic background of the migrants.