Release:
2026. Vol. 12.. № 2 (46)About the authors:
Kristina A. Zakharova , Cand. Sci. (Econ.), Associate Professor, Lead Researcher, Institute for Research on Socio-Economic Transformations and Financial Policy, Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, Moscow, RussiaAbstract:
The article presents the conceptualization and empirical verification of structural-dynamic patterns of regional development in the binary coordinate system “Innovative Development — Quality of Life” through analytical visualization and mapping of the spatial-temporal trajectories of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation to identify dysfunctional states and justify the transition from a technocratic to a human-centered paradigm of innovation policy. A two-dimensional development matrix, constructed on the basis of the median values of the Russian Regional Innovation Index (HSE) and the Quality-of-life Rating (RIA Novosti/Financial University), was used as a methodological basis. Four stable types of regional development were identified: “balanced leadership”, “social imbalance” (high quality of life with low innovation activity), “innovation imbalance” (high innovation with low quality of life), and “comprehensive lagging”. An analysis of the dynamics of regional positions within this coordinate system revealed increasing polarization: an expansion of the group of leaders due to regions that have moved into the first quadrant, while the number of regions experiencing regression in both indicators has increased. It was found that increased innovative potential is not always associated with improved quality of life, confirming the hypothesis of structural imbalances in regional development models. Based on the obtained results, the need for a transition to a human-centered innovation policy that takes into account the socioeconomic barriers, demographics, and institutional characteristics of the regions is substantiated. The research findings can be used in the development of differentiated strategies for the socioeconomic and innovative development of regions, as well as in the practice of targeted government regulation.Keywords:
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