Localisation of Sustainable Development Goals in the Regions of Russia and Kazakhstan: Comparative Analysis and Factors of Spatial Differentiation

Nataliya Vladimirovna Yakovenko, Zhanar S. Rakhimbekova, Gulzira Yestekova, Natalia Azarova, Yelena S. Petrenko, Lyudmila Semenova

2026

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DOI 10.3390/su18126158
Data confidence 85 high
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Abstract

The article presents the results of an empirical study of the localisation processes of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 102 regions of Russia and Kazakhstan for the period 2015–2024. Based on the author’s methodology for constructing the SDG Localisation Index (SDGLI) using the method of the main components, a quantitative assessment of regional progress was carried out according to 14 SDGs. Cluster analysis has identified four sustainable types of regions that differ in the structure and dynamics of sustainable development. Using eco-metric tools (panel regressions with fixed effects, spatial models, difference-in-differences method), key factors of interregional differentiation were identified, including economic, social, institutional and spatial determinants. Particular attention is paid to assessing the effect of adopting regional sustainable development strategies. A decomposition of interregional inequality was carried out, which made it possible to quantify the contribution of various groups of factors. The results of the study contribute to the theory of regional economics and can be used to improve regional policies in the field of sustainable development.