Vorobieva O.D., Topilin A.V., Tonkikh E.V. Transformation of population settlement in the Central European part of Russia: the present and future of small towns. Herald of the Russian Academy of Sciences. 2026, vol. 96, no.2, рр. 156–172. (In Russ.) DOI: 10.7868 ...

Abstract

This article examines current demographic processes in 34 small towns in six regions of Russia’s Central Federal District from 1970 to the present. It shows that population growth has given way to decline since the 1990s, changing patterns of demographic behavior among urban and rural residents, accelerating natural population decline, and intensifying migration. The main factors driving population outflow include changes in the labor market, a reduction in employment opportunities, and low wages. The article also identifies the main directions of migration flows from these regions. The article identifies key development trends for small towns, consistent with current economic and social realities. Proposals have been formulated to preserve small towns as a vital link in the settlement system within the framework of the Spatial Development Strategy of the Russian Federation.