Региональная дифференциация уровня и динамики детского благополучия в России
Regional Disparities in the Levels and Dynamics of Child Well-Being in Russia

Summary/Abstract: The paper proposes a methodology for calculating the Statistical Index of Child Well-being, developed for Rosstat and tested with the support of the Timchenko Foundation using 2018–2022 data. Based on 27 Rosstat indicators, the index introduces a dual regional classification by domains of child well-being and by observed improvement outcomes. The aim of the study is to identify types of Russian regions according to the level and dynamics of child well-being in 2018–2022 using the integrated Child Well-being Index and its component sub-indices. Correlation analysis is conducted to examine the relationship between the Child Well-being Index (and its sub-indices) and regional socio-economic conditions, including gross regional product (GRP) per capita and income inequality. In addition, cluster analysis is applied to classify Russian regions based on child well-being indicators. The results reveal significant regional disparities in both the composite child well-being index and its sub-indices. Several stable regional groups are identified: regions with consistently high levels of child well-being, which may serve as benchmarks for effective policy practices; regions with persistently low levels; regions with a sustained decline in the index; regions demonstrating steady improvement; and regions characterized by unstable dynamics. The analysis shows that the dynamics of child well-being are associated with the level of regional economic development, with higher GRP per capita corresponding to higher index values and more favourable dynamics. Income inequality primarily affects sub-indices related to the financial well-being of families and public expenditure levels. Future research directions include identifying determinants of fluctuations in the Child Well-being Index and developing a reduced “mini-index” based on a smaller set of indicators to enable quarterly monitoring of child well-being dynamics.

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