Border territories: A concept, development, and significance for the national economy

Abstract

Subject. We consider relations that are formed between the border territories of the Russian Federation and foreign States. These relations are important for the development of not only the said areas, but also for national economies in general. Objectives. The study reviews issues of border territories development and their significance for the national economy, highlighting the factors, conditions, trends, problems, and prospects. Methods. We employ methods of systematization, comparison, and collation. Results. The paper reviews statutory instruments and scientific publications reflecting the approaches to defining the border area category; outlines functions implemented by near-border areas, their advantages and limitations, and development factors; presents grouped indicators enabling to analyze the level of border area development. We identify leaders and outsiders based on selected evaluation parameters. Special attention is given to problems of border territories functioning. The paper also presents certain provisions that contribute to the development of border territories. Conclusions and Relevance. The border territory status enables subjects of the Russian Federation to use the available resources and advantages of their geopolitical situation through the means of competent leveling between threats and positive benefits from the border neighborhood.