Rural agglomerations as a tool for spatial development of rural areas: challenges and implementation mechanisms(using the Voronezh region as an example)

The paper examines the main challenges facing rural areas in Russia: population decline, chronic underfunding of infrastructure, fragmentation of land use, and low agricultural productivity. The author argues for a shift towards managed rural agglomerations as an integrated system that generates synergy and mutual benefits for all stakeholders. Economic and organizational mechanisms for forming such agglomerations are proposed, and an integral method for assessing agglomeration potential is described using the Voronezh region as a case study. Necessary legal and institutional changes are also discussed, including the formal recognition of rural agglomerations in legislation, the development of public-private partnerships, and the adjustment of existing state support programs. Expected outcomes include higher productivity in agriculture, stemming the outflow of population, integrated land development, and more efficient use of budget funds.