Main Factors of Uneven Development among Russian Regions

Abstract

The article explores the primary factors contributing to the uneven social development of regions in Russia, providing a general classification. It pays particular attention to the influence of historical, cultural-civilisational, and geopolitical factors on the development and modernisation of Russian regions. This includes regional traditions, ethno-social and cultural specificities, and an analysis of how all these factors impact regional dynamics.
 The study illustrates that disparities, significant differences, and inequalities in the socio-economic development of Russia's regions are a result of the combination and interaction of multiple factors that require consideration when formulating and implementing regional policies. The interaction of different factors in each specific case creates key and acute social problems and risks for that region. Therefore, regional authorities and active local community groups must focus on timely responses to prevent the radicalisation and politicisation of these problems, preventing them from escalating into social-political conflicts.
 Among such problems and associated risks are issues of social inequality perceived by local residents as fundamentally unjust. These include challenges related to the lack of access for many inhabitants to quality healthcare and education, as well as ecological problems. Additionally, concerns arise regarding interethnic relations, particularly between local populations and migrants arriving from other states, along with demographic challenges.
 However, the concerted efforts of regional authorities and concerned citizen groups at the grassroots level alone cannot entirely solve the key problems of a region. This demands close cooperation and the pooling of efforts from local communities, regional, and central authorities. Presently, in Russia, such collaboration and concerted efforts across different levels are implemented only fragmentarily and far from being adequate. Consequently, it is concluded that to ensure social stability in Russian regions, regional and local authorities need to consider the interests of local communities and their initiatives for development. This includes areas such as culture, preserving and developing local traditions, education, regional studies, local and regional identity, historical memory, and ecology.
 Moreover, it is crucial to prevent the gross destruction of natural and social environments and the predatory use of natural and human resources in Russian regions by large corporations, holdings, and financial structures. The author concludes that while devising and implementing any projects for socio-political and economic development, it's essential to consider both the general civilisational specifics of Russia and the peculiarities of development within regional and local communities. Ignoring these aspects could lead to irreversible damage to the social environment and the degradation of fundamental social, cultural, and value structures within Russian society.