The population as a key-factor in the economic development of the region (on the example of Saint Petersburg and the Leningrad region)

Abstract

Since 1992, the death rate in Russia has exceeded the birth rate, sociological and demographic studies show depopulation, that is, a decrease in the population of the country, including the labor force. In Saint Petersburg and the Leningrad region there was a noticeable process of aging of the population, mainly working ages and a reduction in labor resources. This social factor negatively influenced the economic development of the region. One of the reasons for the economic development of Saint Petersburg and the Leningrad region was labor migration from other regions of Russia, CIS countries and foreign countries. But labor migrants from foreign countries do not have the means to purchase housing and, with rare exceptions, cannot become permanent residents of the region under investigation. This factor negatively affects the formation of labor resources. The level of training and the structure of the workforce also have a great influence on the economic development of the region. Currently, Saint Petersburg and the Leningrad region continue to experience a shortage of engineering personnel and highly skilled workers.