Search by keyword: Human Development Index
DIGITAL INEQUALITY AND HUMAN CAPITAL OF RUSSIAN REGIONS: A SOCIOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE
This article examines the issue of digital inequality and its relationship with human capital at national and regional levels during the ongoing digital transformation of the economy, where digital skills and competencies are growing in importance. In this context, regional digital disparities may hinder human capital development across different regions. The study evaluates the digital divide between regions with varying levels of human capital development using a four-level conceptual framework of digital inequality. The author hypothesizes that regions with more developed human capital experience not only smaller gaps in digital access and skills but also greater social benefits from digital technologies. The empirical analysis draws on data from the Russian Selective Federal Statistical Survey on the Use of Information Technologies and Telecommunication Networks (2019 and 2023).
The results demonstrate significant differences in both information and communications technology proficiency and usage patterns between high- and low-human-capital regions. While residents in less developed regions primarily use ICT for entertainment and communication, those in more advanced regions leverage technology more frequently for education, skills development, and efficient daily living practices that foster further human capital growth.
These findings can guide policymakers in designing targeted social programs to reduce regional inequalities.
Goloukhova D. V. d.v.goloukhova@inno.mgimo.ru.
Keywords: digital divide human capital digital skills regional inequality Human Development Index internet usage practices
How the Shadow Economy Impacts the Quality of Life in Regions
<span lang="EN-US" 14pt;"="">The article presents the findings of research on how the shadow economy and the quality of life of population are interrelated. We propose a hypothesis that we can evaluate the shadow economy at the regional level basing on the dynamics of the quality of life indicators. The impact that the shadow economy has on the quality of life is proved by a regression analysis of its indicators and Human Development Index values for countries worldwide. To study the shadow economy at the regional level, we have identified the quality of life indicators that reflect regional differences and are affected by the shadow economy. Having compared the dynamics of the standard of living and quality of life indicators in the Siberian Federal District for the period between 2001 and 2013, we managed to get an insight into the level of the shadow economy. In regions where growth in the standard of living corresponds to growth in the quality of life, the level of the shadow economy is below average; on the contrary, in regions where growth in the standard of living exceeds growth in the quality of life, the level of the shadow economy is above average.
Nevzorova Ye. N. nevzorova_kat@mail.ru
Kireyenko A. P. kireenko-ap@isea.ru
Keywords: regional economy standard of living Human Development Index quality of life evaluation of shadow economy shadow economy
