Human potential as a strategic resource of the Russian Arctic sustainable development

Abstract

Efficiency of the Russian Arctic development depends greatly on human potential of the population inhabiting and conducting work activities in the Arctic regions. Human development is a key factor facilitating sustainable development of the area. Nowadays, there are negative social tendencies in the Russian Arctic, which does not ensure social safety of the population. It necessitates revision of the existing legal standards and development of a target-oriented federal policy that would take into account Arctic indigenous peoples’ interests and enhance the attraction of workforce from other regions. The paper covers basic social problems of the Russian Arctic and offers some ways to solve them. The author considers the human potential as a strategic resource for sustainable development of the region. Therefore, the human potential should remain the focus of government’s attention and undergo regular assessment.