Polyfunctionality of the Transport System of Northern Regions

Abstract

The leading role of the transport system in the development of northern regions ofRussiafrom the point of view of national strategic interests and basing in the analysis of the features of those regions, has been identified. The problem of insufficient development of methods for assessing the state of the transportation market in the absence of year-round availability of transport routes has been revealed. Therefore, the concept of polyfunctionality of the transport system of northern regions has been proposed, along with core definitions in its regard. It involves performance of four core functions (economic, social, environmental, and geopolitical one), as well as of four developing functions (informational, innovative, institutional, and integrative one). Public statistics data required for implementation of the concept, but now unavailable, are identified.The study shows the possible stakeholders interested in the implementation of those functions at the macro-, meso-, and micro levels, suggests indicators for assessing the multifunctional system. The research conclusions are developed using brief overview of international practices and data and situation analysis regarding Russian northern regions, particularlyRepublicofSakha(Yakutia).