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Derivative Instruments (Details 4) (Currency Swap Member, USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | 3 Months Ended | 6 Months Ended
--- | --- | ---
Jun. 30, 2012 | Jun. 30, 2011 | Jun. 30, 2012 | Jun. 30, 2011
Currency Swap Member |  |  |  |
Net Investments in Foreign Operations [Line Items] |  |  |  |
Net Derivatives Gains (Losses) Deferred in AOCI | $ 6,642 | $ (9,916) | $ (4,003) | $ (25,020)

X
- Definition The current period gain (loss) recognized in other comprehensive income related to the effective portion of derivatives designated in cash flow hedges. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | rga_GainsLossesDeferredInAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossOnDerivativesEffectivePortion
Namespace Prefix: | rga_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Details
Name: | rga_NetInvestmentsInForeignOperationsLineItems
Namespace Prefix: | rga_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration