Sustainable Development of Rural Areas: Problems and Directions of State Regulation

Abstract

   In the context of sanctions restrictions since 2014 the Russian economy has faced a number of challenges, primarily with ensuring economic security. At the same time, the previous and the current phases have shown that new possibilities are opening up for national producers. The rural areas have also received additional opportunities for development. However, in actual practice regions don’t use this chance, several of them demonstrate variable growth and economic stagnation, enhancing the problem of uneven development. The aim of the research is to evaluate current socio-economic situation in rural areas on the example of the Yaroslavl Region. Based on system and comparative approaches, methods of analysis and synthesis, processing of statistical data, the author reveals increasing differentiation in rural areas, associated with such important problems as social desertisation, non-competitive salary level, degradation processes in the production, underdevelopment of the non-agricultural sector, etc. As the result, the stable state of the territories is disturbed. It has negative effect on the region’s economy. Research analysis made it possible to identify the areas of state regulation and support of the regions. According to the author opinion it’s important to coordinate such priority directions as employment and household income, stabilization of the demography, infrastructure development. In the case of the transition to sustainable development special attention is paid to the application of the integrated approach, using new measures and tools. In addition it’s necessary to create special conditions and to enhance control system. As the result, social and economic effects will strengthen.