Migration processes in urban settlements of mountainous regions of the NCFD republics as a factor in sustainable development of the territory

Abstract

Introduction. Identification of migration processes in urban settlements in the mountainous regions of the North Caucasus Federal District in the context of sustainable development. Methods. The study used statistical, cartographic, comparative-geographical, and descriptive-analytical research methods. Results. The list of mountain urban settlements in the republics of the North Caucasus Federal District was identified based on the provisions of the mountain policy of the Republic of Dagestan. The following constituent entities of the North Caucasus Federal District were identified: the Karachay-Cherkess Republic, the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic, and the Republic of Dagestan. The information base was based on official statistics from Rosstat at the municipal level from 2015 to 2023. In the vast majority of urban settlements in the mountainous regions of the North Caucasus Federal District, there is a migration outflow, while some settlements experience a low migration inflow. The study identified four groups of urban settlements based on the intensity of migration outflow (inflow): high depopulation (Mednogorsk), medium depopulation (New Karachay, Dubki, and Shamilkala), low depopulation (Karachaevsk, Tyrnyauz, and Kashkhatau), and small migration growth (UstDzheguta and Pravokubanskij). The difference in the nature of migration processes can also be observed in the selected time periods (from 2015 to 2019 and from 2020 to 2023). The most significant factors in the intensity of the population’s migration decline are the ethnic structure of the population and the unfavorable transport and geographical location. The factors that mitigate the migration decline in urban settlements in mountainous regions include the location relative to the administrative centers of the republics and the level of economic development. The leading role in migration processes is played by interregional and intraregional flows. The settlements under study are attractive to immigrants. Conclusion. The migration decline in the vast majority of urban settlements in the mountainous regions of the North Caucasus Federal District is one of the significant factors contributing to the decline in the sustainability of the territory’s socio-economic development. In this situation, implementing policies aimed at attracting migrants can serve as a stabilizing factor that enhances the sustainability of the territory.