Social aspects of the sustainability of regional economic systems

Subject. The social component of the sustainability of regional economic systems, the role of the social subsystem as a key element of the triad of sustainable development (economy – society – ecology). Objectives. To investigate the social component of the stability of regional economic systems, to determine its structure, system properties, significance and degree of influence on the stability of the region, as well as to test a methodology for assessing the social potential of regions using the example of the subjects of the Siberian Federal District. Methods. The methodological basis of the article is the concept of sustainable development and system analysis. Methods of statistical and comparative analysis, data normalization, and factor analysis are used. N.V. Shalanov's method of integral assessment, adapted to the indicators of the social subsystem, was used to calculate the potential. Results. The systemic properties and structure of social potential are revealed, and the prospects of using N.V. Shalanov's methodology for its assessment are substantiated. The assessment of the social potential of the Siberian Federal District regions for 2010–2023 showed significant inter-regional differences. In 2010, the potential was relatively high in all regions, but by 2023 it had decreased by a total of 11.1%. The main reasons were the demographic decline, the increase in mortality, the reduction in income and employment, as well as the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and sanctions pressure. The key components of social potential are the quality of human capital, demographic resources, and social infrastructure. Conclusions. The social subsystem acts not only as an indicator, but also as a determining factor in the sustainability of regional economic systems. The revealed decrease in social potential is due to a combination of demographic, economic and institutional challenges. To restore it, a set of measures is needed aimed at stabilizing demographic processes, strengthening the healthcare system, improving the quality of human capital and developing social infrastructure. The use of the methodology of integral assessment of social potential makes it possible to objectively diagnose the state of regions and form sound management decisions.