Social inequalities in Buryatia by the population’ assessments

Certain parameters of social inequality in Buryatia as assessed by ethno-social and income groups are examined in the present paper. It is based on the results of a sociological survey conducted in 20202021 and statistical indexes of the regional development. The main criteria, types and causes of social inequality are determined. According to the majority of those surveyed, regardless of their level of wealth, the dominant inequality in society is that of income. The main criteria were named financial, associated with the freedom to spend money; property, meaning the ownership of real estate, including overseas, as well as access to quality medical care and the ability to travel. Respondents identified the main causes of inequality based on the level of socioeconomic development of the country and the region and largely determined by the state, among them: low wages, unemployment, small pensions, poor economic development. The conclusion is made about the need for socioeconomic development of the region to overcome spatial and social inequalities.