Federal and Regional Development Strategies and Programs of the Russian Arctic in the Context of Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples of the North to Their Traditional Economic Activities: Update for the Beginning of 2026

DOI:

Strategic planning plays a crucial role in shaping prospective scenarios for the country’s development, stabilizing the domestic political and legislative system and preventing unjustified risks in the sphere of administrative decision-making, which may lead to an imbalance in social relations. According to Part 3 of Article 80 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation, the Head of State, who defines the key directions of the country’s foreign and domestic policy, plays the leading role in strategic planning. The “verticalization” of public administration is a natural prerequisite for the effective functioning of state and municipal government institutions within the framework of the historically established “centralized federation”. Accordingly, the Arctic Zone of the Russian Federation (hereinafter referred to as the AZRF) adheres to a similar hierarchical decision-making structure, providing broad autonomy to the nine Arctic regions while remaining within the framework of established federal standards. This principle is most clearly reflected in Part 1 of Article 1 of Federal Law No. 414-FZ “On Regional Public Authorities”1, which states: “State authorities, other state bodies, and local self-government bodies constitute a unified system of public authority in the Russian Federation and interact to most effectively address tasks in the interests of the population residing in the respective territory.” In this regard, the AZRF is a unique “macro-region”, as Part 4 of Article 60 of the aforementioned law stipulates that the specific aspects of the exercise of certain powers by the state authorities of a constituent entity of the Russian Federation within the AZRF are to be determined by federal law. Currently, the governing statute is Federal Law No. 193-FZ “On State Support for Arctic Business”2. In accordance with Paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Article 2 of Federal Law No. 193-FZ, an authorized federal executive body is designated to formulate state policy and regulatory frameworks for the development of the Russian Arctic Zone. Furthermore, Part 2 of Article 35 of Federal Law No. 473-FZ “On Advanced Development Territories”3 stipulates that the Ministry for the Development of the Far East and the Arctic is the authorized federal body for advanced development territories located within the Far Eastern Federal District and the AZRF.

Therefore, it is crucial to form a comprehensive understanding of the direction in which federal and regional development strategies and programs for one of the country’s most important strategic regions are proceeding.  Particular attention should be paid to the

NORTHERN AND ARCTIC SOCIETIES

Maksim Yu. Zadorin, Konstantin S. Zaikov. Federal and Regional Development Strategies … implementation of strategic planning and program-based development in relation to the most vulnerable and, at the same time, unique segment of the region’s population — the indigenous small-numbered peoples, whose presence not only contributes to the spatial and territorial consolidation of Russian statehood in the Arctic but also shapes a unique Arctic ethno-cultural identity.

Materials and methods

First and foremost, it should be noted that issues of strategic planning in the Arctic are directly or indirectly addressed in the academic publications of the following authors on relevant research topics: scientific planning and the aggregation of public interests for the modernization of public administration mechanisms in the Arctic (Morozov, Kondral, 2014); the role of Arctic regions in implementing Russia’s new Arctic strategy (Podoplekin, Bestuzheva, 2014); the implementation of the “Belkomur” project to actively position the Arkhangelsk Oblast in the realization of Russia’s Arctic policy (Zhuravlev, 2012); the promotion of linguistic diversity in the Arctic alongside a balance between integration processes and the preservation of the ethnocultural identity of local Arctic communities (Sokolova, 2017); the similarities in the models of public administration in Arctic states relating to sustainable development, the balance between the economic exploitation of resources and environmental safety, and the priority given to international cooperation (Panikar, Shaparov, 2016); the success of international project activities, exemplified by the implementation of the Kolarctic project in the Arkhangelsk Oblast (Kudryashova, Zarubina, 2018); Arctic identity as a dynamic, unifying phenomenon that incorporates the traditions of indigenous peoples, the experience of Russian pioneering explorers, and modern socio-economic processes of developing the North (Shachin, 2019); the strengthening of information security in the Russian Arctic Zone through the development of secure communication and navigation systems for the Northern Sea Route, the improvement of the regulatory framework, and consideration of the Arctic region’s specific characteristics (Tamitskiy, 2013); Russia’s Arctic Strategy as a framework of guiding principles linked to strengthening its legal position in the context of extending the continental shelf, developing the infrastructure of the Northern Sea Route and modernizing the Arctic fleet, as well as supporting scientific research and cooperation among interested regions (Zalyvskiy, 2013); the integration of Canadian experience in the development of the North-West Passage in the context of the development of the Northern Sea Route and the strengthening of Russia’s national interests (Goldin, 2024); analysis of the “North-Eastern Text” in relation to the archetypal foundations of Russian identity and the specific nature of the relationship with the North as a “sacred periphery”, which plays a special role in Russia’s spiritual and geopolitical history (Terebikhin, 2023); assessment of the role of humanitarian ties in providing a sustainable foundation for a long-term partnership between Russia and Norway within the Barents Euro-Arctic Region (BEAR) framework (Tevlina, 2012); retrospective analysis of the organizational structure of Arctic research in the USSR during the

1920s in the context of centralization, planning, and coordination (Saburov, 2016); the identification of key drivers of change in Arctic geopolitics, such as ice melt due to climate shifts, increased access to resources and transport routes, growing interest from Asian countries in the polar region, and intensified competition for control over strategic corridors and energy resources on the continental shelf (Panikar, 2023); the nature of the “regionalization” process in Northern Europe (Sokolova, Trufanova, 2025); and the adaptation of federal development programs to regional specificities as a key instrument for fostering the development of the Russian Arctic (Goldin, 2024).

The main focus of research is on the region’s economy and industrial development, which account for the majority of the articles. At the same time, legal research is also represented in domestic scholarship, focusing on the following areas: the legal regulation of the development of the Northern Sea Route (Belborodova, 2024; Battakhov, 2025; Lantsov, 2025), the protection of the rights of the indigenous and small-numbered peoples of the North (Kryazhkov, 2025; Sleptsov, 2024), the preservation of the Arctic’s cultural heritage (tangible and intangible) (Novikova, 2024; Doroftey, 2024); the specific features of labor relations in the AZRF (Krylov, Zykina, 2020; Zykina, 2018); the legal regulation of climate adaptation in Russian Arctic regions (Zadorin, 2023; Zadorin, Gladun, 2024); and the legal framework for investment activities in the Arctic (Battakhov, 2024; Battakhov, 2025).

In foreign, predominantly English-language, literature, the primary focus regarding the Russian Arctic is on microbiological, oceanographic, and general environmental research, with the key authors being Russian speakers. Nevertheless, a review of relevant academic sources highlights the following current topics of research: the statistical accounting for Russian Arctic territories (Glinskiy, Serga, Zaykov, 2017); the development of the Arctic railway network (Lagerev, Lagerev, 2021); Arctic logistics in general and freight transport in particular (Sergeev, Ilin, Fadeev, 2021; Vlasov, Kurganov, Bogumil et al., 2021); the legal regulation of the Northern Sea Route’s development (Liu, Fan, Dang, Zhang, 2021; Gricius, 2026), etc. A direct analysis of strategic and policy documents relating to the socio-economic development of the Russian Arctic sector has not been identified in the English-language segment of scientometric indicators, or is limited to occasional mentions within comprehensive reviews of relevant issues.

A review of Russian publications concerning the traditional economic activities of Arctic aborigines4 reveals a wide range of topics, covering both the 13 officially recognized traditional economic activities (Canosa, Biesbroek, Ford et al., 2023), ranging from reindeer herding (Kudelkin, 2022) to issues concerning a fundamental legal and administrative challenge: the procedure for conducting “ethnological expert assessments” (Martynov, 2020).

In the international section, attention is focused on the relationship between indigenous communities and the mining sector (Novoselov, Potravny, Novoselova et al., 2023); the principle of “free, prior, and informed consent” (Novoselov, Potravny, Novoselova et al., 2023) on the part of indigenous small-numbered peoples during the implementation of energy infrastructure projects; the legal regulation of indigenous whaling (York, Zdor, BurnSilver et al., 2022), and other topics.

The present study applied formal-legal methods of inquiry, as well as methods of systemic and political-legal analysis. Thus, the object of this study is the social relations associated with the legal regulation of the traditional economic activities of the indigenous and small-numbered peoples of the North within the framework of state strategic planning and financial support at the level of state development programs (at the federal and regional levels).

ResultsStrategic level of federal regulation

At the federal level, the key regulatory legal act governing the strategic development of the Russian Arctic Zone and ensuring national security until 2035 is the Decree of the President No. 6455 of October 26, 2020 (hereinafter referred to as the Arctic Strategy 2035 or the Strategy).

Subparagraph “b” of Paragraph 4, Section I of the Arctic Strategy 2035 identifies the high sensitivity of the Arctic ecosystem to external impacts, particularly in areas where Russia’s indigenous small-numbered peoples traditionally reside, as one of the characteristics of the “Russian Arctic” that determine specific approaches to its socio-economic development and national security.

Therefore, the Strategy lists the limited availability of high-quality social services and housing, specifically in remote settlements where indigenous small-numbered peoples have traditionally conducted their economic activities, among the primary dangers, challenges, and threats posing risks to the development of the Arctic Zone and the assurance of national security (Subparagraph “g” of Paragraph 7, Section II).

The Strategy places particular emphasis on addressing social development challenges in the Arctic region; at least four subparagraphs of Paragraph 11 focus on social support for indigenous small-numbered peoples, ranging from healthcare (equipping medical personnel, primary health care, logistics for reaching remote areas and reindeer herder camps) and the preservation of indigenous cultural heritage (traditional culture and languages) to state support for housing construction (wooden housing in indigenous settlements, social and utility infrastructure) and investment in infrastructure of remote territories (subparagraphs “b”, “s”, “ts”, and “sh” of Paragraph 11, Section III).

State support for the traditional economic activities of indigenous peoples is to be provided through the development and implementation of state programs (subparagraph “v” of Paragraph 12, Section III), while infrastructure development involves the provision of mobile power supply sources and communication facilities (subparagraph “t” of Paragraph 13, Section III).

The Strategy also addresses international cooperation regarding the “indigenous agenda”, providing for the promotion of “strengthening ties” between indigenous peoples in the AZRF and those living abroad, including through the organization of international forums (subparagraph “i” of Paragraph 16, Section III).

Access to high-quality social services for indigenous people, including in the context of the intensification of their traditional economic activities, is provided for in the final phase of the Strategy’s implementation from 2031 onwards (subparagraph “v” of Paragraph 32, Section V).

Federal development program

Any strategy requires the development of supporting instruments to implement its provisions. For this reason, in March 2021, the Russian Government approved the State Program for the Socio-Economic Development of the Russian Arctic Zone6.

Paragraph 2 of Section I of the State Program stipulates that “national interests”, the assessment of national security, as well as the main challenges and threats to the national security of the Russian Federation in the Arctic are defined in the “Fundamentals of State Policy of the Russian Federation in the Arctic until 2035”, approved by Decree of the President of the Russian Federation No. 164 dated March 5, 2020. The document also outlines the objectives of the Russian Federation’s state policy in the Arctic, aimed generally at improving the quality of life of the population of the Arctic Zone, including the indigenous small-numbered peoples of the AZRF.

Paragraph 24 of Section I of the State Program specifies that, in order to raise the level of socio-economic development in the AZRF and improve the quality of life and security of the population, the Ministry for the Development of the Russian Far East and the Arctic, in collaboration with the expert community and representatives of federal, regional, and municipal executive and legislative bodies, developed and approved (by Order of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 978-r of 15 April 2021) the Program of State Support for Traditional Economic Activities of Indigenous Small-Numbered Peoples of the Russian Federation Carried Out in the AZRF.

Paragraph 8 of Section II of the State Program states that the main instrument for implementing the Strategy for Developing the Russian Arctic Zone and Ensuring National Security is a comprehensive state program, which facilitates the implementation of this strategy in alignment with one of the key priorities of the Russian Federation’s state policy in the Arctic — strengthening of ties between small-numbered peoples and indigenous peoples living in the Arctic

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Maksim Yu. Zadorin, Konstantin S. Zaikov. Federal and Regional Development Strategies … territories of foreign states, within the framework of relevant international forums on this subject.

Regional level

Murmansk Oblast

The “Strategy for the Socio-Economic Development of the Murmansk Oblast until 2020 and for the Period up to 2025” (hereinafter referred to as the Murmansk Strategy 2025)7 contains a wide range of provisions relating both to ethno-national issues and to specifically practical matters concerning the implementation of economic initiatives based on support for the “traditional economy”.

In particular, the “General Provisions” section of the Murmansk Strategy 2025 notes that ethnographic tourism is not only a promising avenue for increasing tourist flows but also one of the most important means of preserving the distinct identity of the indigenous small-numbered peoples of the North.

The “Emerging Opportunities” section of the Murmansk Strategy 2025 forecasts the potential to attract investment to the Murmansk Oblast for international environmental protection projects, as well as for the preservation and development of the livelihoods of the indigenous small-numbered peoples of the North, which will also have a positive impact on the development of service and tourism infrastructure in the region. It is envisaged that political, institutional and economic “instruments” will be used within the framework of the Arctic Council’s activities.

Paragraph 1.9 of the Murmansk Strategy 2025 stipulates that strengthening civic unity, harmonizing inter-ethnic relations, and promoting the preservation and development of the ethno-cultural diversity of the peoples of Russia are linked to the state policy priority of “preserving the cultural identity and unique way of life of the indigenous small-numbered peoples of the North in the Murmansk Oblast”. The expected outcomes of addressing this task include strengthening the unity of the Russian nation and developing a unified ethno-cultural space as a crucial factor for sustainable development; reducing direct and indirect economic losses resulting from inter-ethnic and inter-religious tensions and conflicts; improving the ethno-cultural and social well-being of the indigenous small-numbered peoples of the North in the Murmansk Oblast.

Paragraph 1.10 of the Murmansk Strategy 2025 focuses the attention of implementers on the agricultural sector, noting that supplying the region’s population with high-quality, locally produced agricultural goods and food relies, among other things, on such a state priority as the preservation and development of northern reindeer herding, which forms the basis of the livelihoods of the indigenous and small-numbered peoples of the North, including the promotion of premium-class product output.

Paragraph 3.8 of the Murmansk Strategy 2025, devoted to the development of the region’s

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Maksim Yu. Zadorin, Konstantin S. Zaikov. Federal and Regional Development Strategies … fisheries sector, identifies the improvement of the organization of traditional fishing activities for the indigenous small-numbered peoples of the North as a key development priority.

Paragraph 3.9 of the Murmansk Strategy 2025 outlines the growing role of tourism in the region’s economic and socio-cultural development, prioritizing the sustainable use of natural resources and the development of environmentally safe forms of tourism in areas where the indigenous small-numbered peoples of the North traditionally reside and conduct their economic activities.

It is noteworthy that the Sámi and the Kola Pomors are mentioned together as representatives of the region’s indigenous population. However, it is important to note that the Kola Pomors are not officially recognized as an indigenous minority at the federal level. The legal status of this ethnographic group is similar to that of the Komi-Izhma people and is linked to the right to establish a national-cultural autonomy under federal legislation protecting the rights of national (ethnic) minorities.

Reindeer herding and fishing are also identified as key strategic priorities; this is reflected in the plan to establish, in the medium to long term, a separate export-oriented food cluster within the fisheries cluster, with facilities for the production, processing and export of environmentally clean products. It is specifically noted that these priorities could become effective drivers of growth for the regional economy, lead to the emergence of new facilities for the deep processing of biological products and the output of competitive food products (both premiumclass and affordable, yet nutritionally complete) and high-value-added pharmaceutical products, as well as promote technological innovation and the development of supporting transport and logistics infrastructure (section: “Murmansk Oblast — Centre for the Development of the Arctic Zone of the Russian Federation”)8.

Particular mention should be made of the innovative Arctic technology cluster. This cluster encompasses such promising areas as the creation of an Arctic technology park for the deep and waste-free processing of aquatic biological resources (including underutilized and non-traditional aquatic species and mariculture products) and marine genetic resources (including algae). It also focuses on products of traditional reindeer husbandry such as commercial food products, bioactive substances and supplements, enzymatic protein hydrolysates, therapeutic and prophylactic agents, and other premium-class goods (section: “Profile of the Murmansk Oblast”)9.

Reindeer husbandry products are classified as premium if they possess the following characteristics: high quality (selected raw materials, strict production controls); premium pricing (above the market average due to unique properties and production costs); and added value (products undergoing deep processing, offering scientifically proven benefits, or featuring exclusive characteristics).

The list of premium products includes the following categories:

• •    commercial food products — top-grade meat and offal, certified as environmentally clean, with distinctive flavor characteristics or specialized processing methods (e.g., drycuring using traditional recipes, premium cuts);

• •    bioactive substances and supplements — purified and standardized concentrates derived from reindeer antlers, blood, and organs; products with proven health benefits (e.g., immunomodulators, adaptogens);

• •    enzymatic protein hydrolysates — highly purified protein fractions obtained through enzymatic processing; used in sports nutrition, dietary products, or pharmaceuticals;

• •    therapeutic and preventive products — products based on reindeer raw materials (e.g., ointments containing antler extracts, collagen-based dietary supplements) that are clinically proven to be beneficial and manufactured according to pharmaceutical standards.

Key characteristics of the premium segment include:

• •    scientific substantiation: research confirming biological activity or therapeutic effects;

• •    certification: compliance with organic product standards, GMP (for pharmaceutical products), or other prestigious standards;

• •    exclusivity: limited production, manual selection of raw materials, traditional processing methods;

• •    marketing: positioning as “elite”, “Arctic”, or “authentic” products aimed at discerning consumers.

In summary, the “premium” designation here is not merely a marketing term but an indicator of high-level processing, quality control, and a specific target audience (e.g., premium retail outlets, specialized pharmacies, and exports to countries with rigorous standards).

Thus, the traditional way of life of the indigenous minority peoples of the Murmansk Oblast is predominantly centered on expanding the industrial processing of reindeer meat for a wide range of purposes.

In order to address strategic priorities, the region implements the program “Murmansk Oblast — Strategic Center of the Arctic Zone of the Russian Federation”10.

Republic of Karelia

The Republic of Karelia has adopted the “Strategy for the Socio-Economic Development of the Republic of Karelia until 2030” (hereinafter referred to as the Karelia Strategy 2030)11.

Paragraph 22 of the Karelia Strategy 2030 identifies the facilitation of programs for the preservation and development of local communities and indigenous peoples, as well as their engagement in tourism activities, as an instrument for stimulating the development of various types of tourism.

Paragraph 43 of the Karelia Strategy 2030 lists the following among the key measures aimed at the ethno-cultural development of peoples and the assurance of inter-ethnic and interreligious harmony:

• •    “securing subsidies from the federal budget to support the ethno-social and ethnocultural development of the small indigenous peoples of the North, Siberia and the Far East of the Russian Federation, and the Veps living in the Republic of Karelia;

• •    ensuring the ethno-social and ethno-cultural development of the territories traditionally inhabited by indigenous peoples in the Republic of Karelia.”

However, there is no mention of “traditional use of natural resources” or “traditional economic activities”. The primary focus is on ethnography.

In addition to the regional tourism development program12, which supports strategic initiatives, a federal targeted program “Development of the Republic of Karelia until 2030” has been approved13.

Arkhangelsk Oblast

Similar to most Arctic regions, the Arkhangelsk Oblast has also adopted a regional “Strategy for the Socio-Economic Development of the Arkhangelsk Oblast until 2035” (hereinafter referred to as the Arkhangelsk Strategy 2035)14.

Section II of the Arkhangelsk Strategy 2035, which outlines the factors influencing the socio-economic development of the Arkhangelsk Oblast, contains Table 3 regarding the external environment’s impact on the region’s socio-economic potential and competitiveness; it also highlights the worsening situation of the indigenous small-numbered peoples of the North as a result of increased economic activity in the Arctic.

Section III identifies the following as competitive advantages of the Arkhangelsk Oblast:

• •    agro-industrial complex: “Agriculture based on dairy cattle farming is a traditional sector in the Arkhangelsk Oblast. Currently, the southern part of the region is undergoing active restoration and expansion of dairy cattle farming”;

• •    cultural heritage: “The Arkhangelsk Oblast possesses a rich cultural heritage, comprising

NORTHERN AND ARCTIC SOCIETIES

Maksim Yu. Zadorin, Konstantin S. Zaikov. Federal and Regional Development Strategies … historical settlements and architectural ensembles, as well as spiritual heritage and traditional crafts. This contributes to the development of tourism, which is currently most advanced on the Solovetsky Islands and in the city of Arkhangelsk.”

The “Northern Village” project appears to offer promising prospects, as it aims to preserve the traditional way of life in the region’s villages, which has evolved over centuries. Furthermore, Russian wooden architecture represents a unique global phenomenon. Consequently, “tourist routes have been developed in the rural areas of the Arkhangelsk Oblast that incorporate historical and cultural heritage sites and locations where traditional folk crafts are practiced” (Section V: Key Projects and Objectives for the Socio-Economic Development of the Arkhangelsk Oblast)15.

However, the traditional economic activities of indigenous small-numbered peoples are not mentioned, despite the presence of a Nenets population in three districts of the region: Mezenskiy, Primorskiy, and Leshukonskiy. As is the case in Karelia, the primary focus in the Arkhangelsk Oblast is on supporting ethnographic tourism (specifically, the Northern Russian village).

Similar to other regions, the Arkhangelsk Oblast has adopted state regional development programs; specifically, there are at least 25 such programs in the region16.

Nenets Autonomous Okrug

The “Strategy for the Socio-Economic Development of the Nenets Autonomous Okrug until 2030” (hereinafter referred to as the Nenets Strategy 2030)17 contains a crucial provision — Section 5.14 “Support for the Traditional Way of Life of the Indigenous Small-Numbered Peoples of the North Residing in the Nenets Autonomous Okrug”.

Key areas of economic development for the Nenets Autonomous Okrug include the development of agriculture and the processing of agricultural products, particularly within the reindeer herding sector. The aim is to establish and maintain the expanded reproduction of domestic reindeer, as well as to develop a system for the harvesting, processing and marketing of products in order to preserve Nenets traditions. In support of this goal, the following tasks have been set: to improve the quality of the domestic reindeer herd; to develop the deep processing of sectoral products; to organize the training and retraining of qualified personnel for this sector; to focus state support measures on targeted assistance aimed at modernizing infrastructure, from harvesters to processors and distribution networks (section “Key Areas of Economic Development of the Nenets Autonomous Okrug”)18. Identified challenges include a low level of technological

NORTHERN AND ARCTIC SOCIETIES

Maksim Yu. Zadorin, Konstantin S. Zaikov. Federal and Regional Development Strategies … support (from grazing to slaughtering), degradation of reindeer pastures (and, consequently, a reduction in the forage base), a shortage of personnel, and economic instability (from “market dynamics” to environmental issues).

In addition to reindeer herding and meat processing, the Okrug has prioritized support for the traditional way of life of the Nenets people; the stated aim is to create conditions for the sustainable development of indigenous small-numbered peoples by strengthening their socioeconomic potential while preserving their ancestral habitat, traditional lifestyle, and cultural values (paragraph 9.2).

Thus, the “indigenous factor” is most clearly evident in the NAO, linked to the comprehensive support for the traditional economic activities of indigenous peoples. At least 26 state programs are currently in operation within the Okrug19.

Komi Republic

The “Strategy for the Socio-Economic Development of the Komi Republic until 2035” (hereinafter referred to as the Komi Strategy 2035)20 alongside the strategies of the Murmansk Oblast and the Nenets Autonomous Okrug, identifies one of its objectives as the preservation of reindeer herding as a traditional form of economic activity, way of life and culture of the indigenous peoples of the Komi Republic living within its territory. The legal and administrative formulations in the strategy literally replicate similar phrasing used by neighboring regions.

Appendix 2 of the Komi Strategy 2035, titled “Strategic Analysis of the Socio-Economic Development of the Komi Republic”, presents the results of a comprehensive analysis of the region’s socio-economic development and macro-economic structure, in which the long-term development prospects for the integrated functionality of economic and transport projects include the preservation of traditional forms of natural resource use by indigenous peoples. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of “strengthening multilateral ties on a long-term basis to consolidate the efforts of Arctic constituent entities in implementing the Russian Federation’s state policy in the Arctic”.

Table 47 of the Komi Strategy 2035 characterizes Vorkuta as one of the republic’s largest reindeer-herding municipalities. Consequently, in accordance with Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 631-r dated 8 May 2009, the Vorkuta Urban District is classified as an area of traditional residence and economic activity for indigenous peoples whose main traditional livelihoods, alongside gathering, hunting, and fishing, include reindeer herding. The document notes the presence of “Tybertya” peoples in Vorkuta — the only registered clan-based community in the republic, as well as four posts (“Syr-Yaga”, “Buredan”, “Zapadnaya”, and “Balbanty”), maintained by the “Olenevod” production and agricultural cooperative.

It is noteworthy that “areas of traditional nature use” often do not coincide with the boundaries of administrative-territorial units or regions; consequently, reindeer-herding enterprises from the Nenets (NAO), Yamalo-Nenets (YNAO), and Khanty-Mansi (KhMAO) Autonomous Okrugs operate within the territory of the Komi Republic, while enterprises from the Komi Republic utilize reindeer pastures located within the lands of those regions (see: Table 47 “Characteristics of the Vorkuta Urban District Municipality”).

Therefore, reindeer herding is the specific sector highlighted as a focus for supporting the traditional way of life, economic activities, and trades.

As is the case with the Republic of Karelia, the Komi Republic implements a federal development program until 202821, alongside its regional program for the “Comprehensive Development of Rural Territories”22.

Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug

The “Strategy for the Socio-Economic Development of the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug – Yugra until 2036, with Target Indicators until 2050” (hereinafter referred to as the Khanty-Mansi Strategy 2036–2050)23 outlines the region’s ethno-national policy in Paragraph 2.1 of Section II. It notes that the formation of civil society in Yugra is shaped by regional characteristics, where the multi-ethnic composition of the population is determined by the high proportion of migrants, primarily Russians, Ukrainians, and Tatars, as well as the presence of indigenous small-numbered peoples of the North (Khanty, Mansi, Nenets). The traditions and customs of the latter are identified as a “primary potential”.

In addition to oil extraction, which is designated as a “growth point”, the agro-industrial complex is highlighted, including reindeer herding, traditional trades, and the marketing of products derived from the traditional economic activities of indigenous small-numbered peoples of the North.

Paragraph 2.5 of the Khanty-Mansi Strategy 2036–2050 stipulates that increasing the attractiveness of municipalities should be achieved, amongst other things, through regional support for the development of the traditional economy and the traditional way of life of the indigenous peoples of the North, including state grant support for projects in ethnographic tourism and traditional economic activities.

Overall, the review of the document revealed a significant amount of information relating to indigenous peoples of the North (over 60 references in the text).

At least two state programs of the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug (KhMAO) directly affecting the traditional way of life of the indigenous peoples of the North should be highlighted: “Development of Economic Potential”24 and “Sustainable Development of Indigenous Small-Numbered Peoples of the North”25.

Krasnoyarsk Krai

The “Strategy for the Socio-Economic Development of the Northern and Arctic Territories and Support for the Indigenous Small-Numbered Peoples of the Krasnoyarsk Krai until 2035”26 identifies, among the strategic stages and expected results of the document’s implementation, the “introduction of measures aimed at preserving the traditional way of life of indigenous small-numbered peoples of the North, including projects to build ethnic villages in their traditional areas of residence and to establish processing facilities and collection points for the harvesting, processing, and packaging of produce from traditional trades” (sub-paragraph 7 of Paragraph 5.2, Section V).

The three main areas designated for traditional hunting and reindeer herding are the Taimyr Dolgan-Nenets, Evenki and Turukhansk municipal districts. Reindeer herding plays a “culture-defining role” in preserving the culture and way of life of over 500 nomadic families from among the indigenous peoples. The official website of the Krasnoyarsk Krai lists 22 state development programs27.

Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug

The “Strategy for the Socio-Economic Development of the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug until 2035” (hereinafter referred to as the Yamal Strategy 2035)28 notes the existence of two economic models within the Okrug: a traditional one (based on the way of life of indigenous peoples) and an industrial one. At the same time, the region is a global leader in terms of the number of reindeer (over 800,000 head). The agro-industrial complex is developing in two main areas: reindeer husbandry and fisheries. The Okrug also exports furs, rawhides, footwear, textiles, and souvenirs, the majority of which are the result of the traditional economic activities of the indigenous peoples of the North.

Paragraph 1.4 of the Yamal Strategy 2035, which is entirely devoted to the indigenous small-numbered peoples of the North, notes that one in four residents of the Okrug belongs to an indigenous group, and over 72% of those belonging to the indigenous peoples are Nenets. A small proportion (4%) is the Selkup people.

Regional measures of state support for indigenous small-numbered peoples include the following rights and guarantees: “subsidies for the purchase of fuel and lubricants for mini-power stations; procurement of satellite phones; provision of favorable conditions for traditional nature use; support for the production and sale of goods from traditional economic activities; assistance with employment and self-employment; provision of information (including in native languages); expert and consultative assistance; establishment of “posts”; creation of conditions for preserving and reviving distinctive social living structures; and support for personnel training for traditional economic activities”.

Certain categories of people belonging to vulnerable groups (pensioners, veterans, people with disabilities) amongst indigenous peoples, including “tundra dwellers”, are provided with housing, whereas representatives of indigenous peoples (including organizations) receive grants and awards. Since 2017, nomadic herders have been provided with an additional monthly allowance of 5,000 rubles, as well as special payments for a fixed period to enable them to maintain their traditional way of life (“regional standard of minimum material provision”). Additionally, “posts" offering educational, medical, cultural, and social services have been established along reindeer migration routes to ensure access to state and municipal services.

Preserving the traditional activities and culture of the indigenous peoples of the North is a key long-term priority of state policy; however, adverse climate changes, which directly affect the “reindeer-carrying capacity” of pastures, necessitate support for the vocational guidance and retraining of indigenous residents, as well as the creation of future employment opportunities.

The program for the indigenous small-numbered peoples of the North in the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug (YaNAO) was adopted in 201729.

Republic of Sakha (Yakutia)

The “Strategy for the Socio-Economic Development of the Arctic Zone of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) until 2035” (hereinafter referred to as the Yakutia Strategy 2035)30 identifies, among the key factors determining the competitive advantages of the Arctic Zone of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), the state policy of supporting, preserving and developing the traditional livelihoods of indigenous peoples, the Northern Yakuts, and the Russian-speaking long-established population — the Rusoustintsy and Pokhodchans (reindeer herding, fishing and hunting.

Yakutia has one of the most advanced regional legislative frameworks addressing Arctic issues, from responsible subsoil use to ethnological expertise.

Paragraph 3.1.5 of the Yakutia Strategy 2035 provides for the support and development of the “Young Reindeer Herder” project. This initiative establishes a one-time compensation payment of 1 million rubles, intended for housing improvements, for Russian citizens under the age of 35 who have worked in the reindeer herding sector within the republic’s Arctic districts for at least four years.

The rural populations in most districts possess strong traditions and practical skills for the development of reindeer herding, hunting and fishing; meanwhile, such uluses as Abyyskiy, Verkhoyanskiy, and Srednekolymskiy are particularly well-suited for the development of cattle and horse breeding.

It has been concluded that the relatively low environmental impact, the level of development of the traditional livelihoods of the Northern Yakuts, the indigenous small-numbered peoples of the North, the Russian Arctic old-timers, and the potential for applying new technologies create the conditions for the comprehensive development of coastal fisheries and the expansion of a network of innovative enterprises specializing in the deep processing of aquatic biological resources and reindeer husbandry products. The comprehensive measures being implemented in these territories fully align with the key directions of state policy regarding the preservation and development of the indigenous environment and the traditional way of life of the peoples of the North.

Paragraph Z-3.5.5 of the Yakutia Strategy 2035 outlines the following promising regional projects:

• •    Project 1. “Faktoriya” (Post): implementing a set of measures to facilitate the creation of processing and storage facilities for products from traditional industries, trading and procurement centers, and product collection points as part of the “Trade and Logistics Center” project;

• •    Project 2. “International ISO Standard”: certifying products derived from traditional natural resource use to improve quality and safety and to facilitate export promotion;

• •    Project 3. “Arctic Innovative Biotechnologies”: promoting deep, waste-free processing of reindeer husbandry products and organizing the collection of endocrine-enzyme raw materials from reindeer herds; providing subsidies to certified enterprises for the acquisition of slaughterhouse facilities;

• •    Project 4. “Warmth of the Arctic”: producing fur and reindeer leather goods using “wetblue” technology, initiated by JSC FAIC “Sakhabult”. The primary objective is to involve reindeer and fur-farming enterprises in the production of high-quality leather raw

materials with export potential;

• •    Project 5. “It’s All about Antlers”: reimbursing a portion of costs for enterprises exporting antlers, antler scraps, and processed antler products.

The main aim of all these projects is to move the traditional natural resource use practiced by indigenous minorities and the northern Yakuts away from a subsidy-dependent model towards economic self-sufficiency and sustainable development, as well as to create an innovative model of traditional economic activity that can be “replicated” across all regions of the AZRF.

The development of the republic’s Arctic zone and the indigenous small-numbered peoples residing there is outlined in the relevant republic-level program adopted in July 202231.

Chukotka Autonomous Okrug

The “Strategy for the Socio-Economic Development of the Chukotka Autonomous Okrug until 2030” (hereinafter referred to as the Chukotka Strategy 2030)32 highlights the essence of the region’s traditional economic sectors: reindeer herding meets 45–50% of the local population’s meat needs, while marine mammal hunting (including whaling) supplies the indigenous populations of coastal villages with marine mammal meat. At the same time, the reindeer population is gradually declining due to anomalous weather conditions and organizational changes within reindeer-herding enterprises. Marine mammal hunting is a regulated activity; hunting is permitted, and quotas are allocated exclusively to the indigenous peoples of Chukotka for the purpose of preserving their cultural identity. A list of the 21 development programs is available on the website of the regional governor’s office and government33.

Conclusion

Thus, at the federal level, support for indigenous small-numbered peoples focuses on the following areas: provision of social, medical, and construction services to members of the indigenous population, as well as support for traditional economic activities within the framework of state programs. Particular attention is paid to providing mobile power supply sources.

At regional level, the main focus, directly or indirectly linked to traditional economic activities, is on the following priority areas:

• •    Murmansk Oblast: premium-quality reindeer products;

• •    Republic of Karelia: ethnographic tourism (Veps);

• •    Arkhangelsk Oblast: ethnographic tourism (Northern Village);

• •    Nenets Autonomous Okrug: traditional economic activities (Nenets) — comprehensive support;

• •    Komi Republic: reindeer herding (Vorkuta Urban District);

• •    Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug: reindeer herding and the traditional livelihoods of indigenous small-numbered peoples are integrated into a unified agro-industrial complex;

• •    Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug: traditional economic activities of indigenous small-numbered peoples as a contribution to “non-energy exports”, reindeer herding and fishing within the agro-industrial complex;

• •    Krasnoyarsk Krai: reindeer herding, construction of “ethnic villages” in areas of traditional residence and traditional economic activities of indigenous peoples;

• •    Republic of Sakha (Yakutia): comprehensive support for the indigenous minorities of the North, northern Yakuts, and Russian Arctic old-timers, comprehensive support for traditional economic activities, including through projects and grants: “Young Reindeer Herders”, “Arctic Innovative Biotechnologies”, etc.;

• •    Chukotka Autonomous Okrug: reindeer herding and marine mammal hunting.