NCFU scientists are developing a strategy for the sustainable development of mountainous areas through the development of tourism. The project, supported by the Russian Science Foundation, is aimed at solving the acute problem of population outflow and creating new jobs.

The mountainous regions of the North Caucasus are a place of amazing beauty: there are majestic peaks, mineral springs, and natural monuments. The region has a huge tourist and recreational potential, but it is not yet able to fully realize it. Due to unemployment and poor infrastructure, the local population is leaving their homes. The development of tourism can correct the situation, but in a competent and balanced manner.

Scientists from the North Caucasus Federal University (NCFU), led by Doctor of Geographical Sciences, Professor Vitaly Belozerov, took up the task of solving this issue. The work is carried out within the framework of a grant from the Russian Science Foundation (RSF) and is devoted to the study of the impact of tourism on the socio‑economic development of the mountainous territories of the North Caucasus.

The purpose of the study is to develop a strategy for the sustainable development of mountainous areas through the intensification of tourism activities. To do this, the team will create a comprehensive methodology for analyzing the processes taking place in the region.

– Many people know Turkey or Bali better than the beauty of their native land. When tourists come to the North Caucasus, they are surprised at how unique everything is here. For example, there are World Cultural Heritage sites in Derbent. And the ski resorts of Arkhyz are not inferior to European ones, offering services for all categories of vacationers," says Vitaly Belozerov.

The paradox of local tourism

One of the main problems of the mountainous regions of the North Caucasus today is the outflow of the able–bodied population. The reasons are obvious: high unemployment, insufficient infrastructure development, and limited access to social services.

At the same time, the researchers emphasize, in the republics of the North Caucasus Federal District, the percentage of entrepreneurs engaged in tourism activities is quite high, which paradoxically does not bring the desired income. Why is this happening?

– Sometimes a business can arise spontaneously when an entrepreneur wants to make money quickly and easily. Such cases not only ruin businessmen, but can also damage the environment and negatively affect the lives of the population. Therefore, we will pay special attention to identifying the participation and willingness of local residents to develop tourism in their territories," said Vitaly Belozerov.

Tourism is a powerful factor of socio‑economic growth. It not only generates income directly, but also stimulates the development of related industries: infrastructure, trade, and small businesses.

Numbers and maps: a scientific approach

– The main objective of our project is to study how tourism affects the development of mountainous areas. This happens through the construction of camp sites, hotels, and guest houses. It is important to note that the development of tourism will help solve the serious problem of the outflow of the youth population from mountainous regions, and improve the standard of living of the population of these amazing territories. By creating new accommodation facilities, people will stay in their native places, and not leave in search of work," concludes Vitaly Belozerov.

The development of tourism in the North Caucasus can become a real driver of socio‑economic growth, but only if a scientific approach is taken and the interests of all parties are taken into account. The NCFU scientists' research is designed to lay the foundation for such development: to create analysis tools, collect data, and propose practical solutions that will help mountainous areas unlock their potential and improve the lives of the local population.