Human capital and labor market as sources of economic growth (on the example of northern regions)

This article examines the relationship between human capital, the labor market, and economic growth in Russia’s northern regions from 2014 to 2023. It focuses on identifying specific characteristics of labor force formation and utilisation in these territories. The methodological basis is an analysis of Rosstat data for twelve key northern regions of the Russian Federation, including a comparative study of demographic trends, population dynamics, migration movements, employment and unemployment rates. Mathematical statistics and structural-dynamic analysis have been used, along with elements of spatial analysis to identify territorial trends. The study results demonstrate significant differentiation in the development trajectories of the northern regions. In particular, the oil and gas regions of Western Siberia demonstrate more stable labor market dynamics, while regions of the European North and some Far Eastern territories are experiencing demographic pressure and an outflow of skilled specialists, which negatively impacts regional economic growth. The practical value of the work lies in the possibility of applying the obtained results for working out regional programs, spatial development strategies and improving northern territories’ support mechanisms.