SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF RUSSIAN REGIONS: A COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT

Abstract

The article examines the key aspects of sustainable development of Russian regions in the context of the severity of interregional disparities, which, according to a number of researchers, are one of the long-standing unresolved problems for the domestic economy. Based on the analysis of methodological approaches presented in the works of E.V. Kornilova, V.Ya. Zakharov, D.A. Kornilov, as well as data from rating agencies RIA Rating, the Agency for Strategic Initiatives, the National Rating Agency and research results of the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, structural differences in the level and quality of life, innovation activity, environmental safety and digitalization of the subjects of the federation are identified. The conclusion is substantiated that, despite the formal unity of the strategic goals of spatial development, the regions demonstrate multidirectional trajectories of socio-economic dynamics, which is due to differences in the sectoral structure of gross regional product, accumulated industrial and personnel potential, as well as the effectiveness of regional governance. Special attention is paid to the analysis of heterogeneity of development within federal districts, which, as shown in the study by E.V. Kornilova and co-authors, is often higher than the national average. The paper shows that the leading positions in most groups of sustainability indicators are occupied by the regions of the Central, North-Western, Volga and Ural federal districts, while the subjects of the North Caucasus, Southern, Siberian and Far Eastern federal districts face the risks of being entrenched in the group of outsiders. Directions for improving regional policy aimed at reducing interregional asymmetry and increasing the sustainability of development are proposed, taking into account national characteristics and best practices.