Modern trends of urbanization in the Russian Far East

This article examines current aspects of urbanization in the Russian Far East. The subject of the study is the characteristics of spatial development in the region. The objective of the study is to examine the problem from the perspective of different approaches and identify the risks of existing models when implemented in this region. Historical antecedents have determined the key characteristics of the region's current settlement system, with its distinct urban locations and vast inter-settlement territories. Its remoteness from the center and short development period place the Far East in a vulnerable position relative to other regions of Russia. However, its significant strategic importance and natural resources require a separate approach to its spatial development. The challenge lies in the need to adopt an optimal strategy for fairly uniform urbanization in the Far East, which would lead to an increase in population density and, consequently, a reduction in distances between urbanized zones. The research methodology involves analyzing the underlying assumptions of the problem, modern urban development theories (as applied to the region in question), and state strategies for the spatial development of the region. The analysis revealed that areas with unfavorable climates, and particularly so-called newly developed areas (the Russian Far East, Northern Canada), are sparsely populated regions with clustered urban centers, dispersed communications networks, and a systemic problem of population outflow. At the same time, Russia's development policy for the Far East is determined by strategic factors for creating a highly sustainable region. The spatial development strategy relies on a system of "anchor settlements," which should lead to the intensification of agglomeration processes. However, for the Far East, this entails the additional risk of concentrating population and resources in isolated settlements. Therefore, it is necessary to consider the possibility of organizing clustered systems of settlements as a collaboration of several anchor settlements to develop inter-settlement communications and territories.