Nikita Vlasov on Vesti.FM: Ethnic economics as a factor of regional stability

Considering relevance of folk crafts from an economic point of view, it is necessary to take into account that an important role in this matter is played by the ethnoeconomic factor, which acquires special importance in the light of understanding that most of Russia’s regions are polyethnic, an analyst of Vestnik Kavkaza, Nikita Vlasov, said today in a live broadcast of the National Question program on Vesti.FM, speaking about the legacy of the peoples of Russia.

The National Question is a weekly program on Vesti.FM, during which various aspects of national relations, primarily in Russia, are discussed. Today's program was dedicated to the heritage of the peoples of Russia.

‘’Ethnic economy is currently an important condition for maintaining social and economic stability in the regions, especially in those, where there is a limited resource base, for example, the North Caucasus and Northern regions of Russia," he said, explaining that in this sector practical use of the productive resources is determined by traditions, experience and customs of the local ethnic groups.

Despite the fact that now a significant part of the national crafts companies in Russia is going through a crisis, potential of this industry is enormous. "Russia is one of the few countries that managed to preserve historical traditions and style features of the development of folk crafts up to now," the expert said.

"Also, with support of the regional authorities through the national crafts, it is possible to create jobs, which will contribute to the development of small and medium-sized business projects," the analyst of Vestnik Kavkaza said, noting that when there is a good source of income, young people stay in their native villages and small towns, which in turn helps to preserve historical heritage and develop the region.

"So, one example of a competent solution to such problems is the Dagestani village of Kubachi, whose inhabitants traditionally engage in the artistic metal processing and carving in stone and wood. At the beginning of the 20th century, there were more than 1,000 craftsmen exhibiting their products not only at the regional and Russian, but also the international exhibitions. Every family in Kubachi kept its own pattern, as the bread recipes were kept in the regular families,’’  Nikita Vlasov said.

"However, by the mid-1990s most of local businesses had gone bankrupt, and the decline began. Now, with a population of 3,000 people, about 100 masters live there. Their works are represented in almost every historical and cultural center of Dagestan. This is a positive trend,’’ the analyst said.