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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