Social technologies in poverty reduction in Russia: from internal factors to external challenges

Methodologically poverty research has gone a considerable way from the problem-oriented approach to a participatory paradigm. Problem-oriented methods emerged as a response to the requirements of the transformation period in Russia concerning tactical decisions in the sphere of social management. Participatory approach including all most effective international practices provides the basis of long-term research projects for development of strategies for overcoming poverty. The second turning point in poverty research, besides changing the paradigm, was shifting the focus of risk assessment from internal factors to external ones. At present an important role in the dynamics of poverty risks is played by international conflicts and growing public awareness of the cross-country competition between the quality of life models. The authors consider proactive approach that implies changing the reaction to the current events, as the basis for external poverty risks hedging in local communities.