Instruments for Stimulating Regional Development in Russia as Perceived by Regional Officials

The article analyzes the effectiveness of government support measures for the socioeconomic development of Russian regions based on assessments made by civil servants in federal subjects. The subject of the study is the perception of various federal support instruments by regional authorities. The aim of the study is to identify problems arising during the implementation of support measures and to develop proposals for their improvement. The methodological basis of the study was analysis and summary of the results of a survey conducted by the Center for Regional Policy of the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration jointly with the State Council Commission of the Russian Federation on Economics and Finance in September–October 2024. The survey covered civil servants from various federal subjects. The results of the analysis showed significant differences in assessments of the effectiveness of support measures depending on the group of regions. Problem areas were identified, in particular, the supervision of deputy prime ministers for federal districts received low marks. The assessment of the release of funds as part of the restructuring of debt on budget loans turned out to be ambiguous. The “Infrastructure Menu” (a federal project supporting infrastructure development) instruments and preferential territories have generally received positive reviews. The study’s findings contribute to our understanding of the attitudes of regional governments toward federal support and identify areas for improving its effectiveness. The results can be used to improve state support mechanisms for regional development, to optimize resource allocation, and to increase the efficiency of federal program implementation. They are of interest to government authorities, researchers of regional economics, and management experts.