Voropaeva A.V. Modern Russia: urbanisation of big cities and socio-cultural degradation of small settlements. Law enforcement monitoring. 2025. No. 2. Pp. 117–225. DOI: 10.24412 ...

Текст статьи на сайте журнала URL: http://uzulo.su/mon-prav/pdf-jpg/mp-2025-2-st14-s117-125.pdf (дата обращения 25.07.2025)

Abstract

Purpose of the paper: showing an increase in the social differentiation between big and small cities in Russia and related contradictions requiring a search for mechanisms for their resolution as well as a systematic consideration of the development of small cities and the possibility of bringing small settlements out of stagnation using the said mechanisms. Methods used in the study: the methodology of synergy used, i.e., from the economy and natural environment to cultural norms and quality of life which shows the fundamental unity and at the same time different specifics of regions, cities and villages at different levels of study (social group, city/village, region, society as a whole). Various methods are applied: in-depth interviews, questionnaires, expert surveys. Issues of disproportion in the development of small and urbanised cities, their inequality led to a search for solutions for possibly improving and developing the life of population in small cities which justified using a human-centered system. Study findings: a clear distinction was identified between the unlimited development of urbanised big cities and stagnation in the development of small and rural areas associated with a migration from small settlements and uncontrolled urbanisation of big cities. Urbanisation contributes to the tendency of creating autonomous micro-settlements for wealthy citizens within big cities. Uncontrolled urbanisation leads to a decrease in the number of people living in rural areas which weakens agricultural production and entails the disappearing of the settlement. Research novelty: the liberal model of the country’s development, with the minimisation of government interference in the social sphere, led to constant and unending optimisation. The government cannot secure the growth of public welfare and the quality of life in small cities by only market relations since this process is also related with the humanisation of the economy, i.e. ensuring the functioning and improvement of the social level and the quality of life of the people. The new technological era requires a new culture of management associated with the diversity of the country’s spatial and territorial development, with each city and settlement, and playing a key role in the efficiency of Russia’s strategic development.