Regional policy in border territories: Transformation of goal setting in the context of new challenges

Aim. This study analyzes the transformation process of goal setting in regional policy on the border territories of the Russian Federation (RF) occurring under the influence of geopolitical turbulence, sanctions pressure, and the reshaping of foreign economic relations.

Objectives. The study identifies the stages of evolution of goal setting in regional policy on border territories; determines the key factors shaping the new context of their functioning; and develops a typology of the RF’s border regions for differentiating regional policy tasks in the context of new challenges.

Methods. We use a systems approach, the historical-genetic method, and comparative analysis. A critical analysis of approaches presented in the current scientific literature substantiates the need to abandon unified models of regional policy in favor of differentiating tasks depending on the typological characteristics of border regions.

Results. We have identified three stages in the evolution of goal setting: equalization (1990s — early 2000s), stimulation (mid-2000s — 2020s), and the current stage of adaptation to new challenges. The study systematizes the key factors of transformation, including geopolitical turbulence, the disruption of cooperation chains, digital transformation, institutional uncertainty, and social factors. The author proposes a typology of border regions (integration type, adaptation type, isolation type) based on an analysis of the nature of the territory’s ties with the outside world.

Conclusion. Effective regional policy under the new conditions requires not a change of instruments but a rethinking of goals. In contrast to unified models, the study substantiates the need to differentiate tasks depending on the type of border region. For integration regions, the priority is the preservation and transformation of ties; for adaptation regions, flexibility and the ability to restructure; for isolation regions, the search for internal sources of development. The obtained results can serve as a basis for adjusting the development strategies of border regions and improving the mechanisms of state regulation.

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