Socio-Ecological Perceptions of Industrial Development by the Indigenous Community: Results of Ethnological Expertise in the Neryungri District of the Sakha Republic (Yakutia)

The article presents the results of the analysis of the data of the conducted ethnological examinations of the planned projects of industrial companies in the village of Iengra, Neryungrinsky District, Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). The aim of the study is to identify the structure and determinants of the local community’s, primarily Evenki, attitudes toward industrial development of traditional natural resource management areas. The methodology is based on a hybrid approach, combining quantitative analysis of the questionnaire data (100 respondents participated in the surveys) with elements of qualitative analysis (interviews, observation, document analysis). The results demonstrate a high level of information deficit, a predominance of negative assessments related to environmental risks, and a low level of interaction between companies, authorities, and the local community. Particular attention is paid to the preservation of the native language and traditional culture in the face of industrial pressure. Conclusion dwells upon the fact that it is necessary to transform ethnological assessment procedures toward implementing the principles of free, prior, and informed consent, as well as introducing public control mechanisms. The results are of practical significance for improving regulatory practices in the field of protecting the rights of indigenous peoples.