"Regional Capitals" in Russian Economic and Social Life

Abstract

The author examines the phenomenon of the abnormal concentration of economic, financial, demographic, social, and infrastructural potential in administrative centers of Russian regions ("regional capitals") and in few large cities. The fact that regional governments and territorial agencies of federal institutions are located in the "regional capitals" contributes to growth of their competitiveness. The author considers the reasons for and consequences of this situation that should be taken into account when developing and implementing economic and social policy, as well as federal and regional programs and projects.