Interrelation of quality of life indicators and population migration from economic and landscape zones of the mountain territory of the Kabardino-Balkar Republic

Introduction. In the context of globalization and the transformation of human activity, the study of ethnocultural diversity and spatial settlement patterns has become increasingly relevant. Understanding how different ethnic and cultural groups shape and utilize territories, and how migration affects the sustainability of socioeconomic and ecological-landscape systems, is essential for regional development. Regions where polyethnicity coexists with enduring ethnocultural traditions–such as the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic (KBR) in the North Caucasus–are of particular interest. In recent decades, however, the outflow of the working-age population from KBR’s mountainous territories has disrupted demographic balance and intensified structural distortions in local labor markets. Purpose of the research. This study aims to identify the main factors influencing migration from the economic and landscape zones of the mountainous territories of the KBR and to assess their impact on the sustainability of local socio-economic systems. Materials and methods. The analysis covers four economiclandscape zones of the mountainous KBR, delineated using key economic and physical-geographical indicators. Statistical and spatial-analytical methods were applied to examine the relationship between quality-of-life factors and migration dynamics. Correlation analysis revealed a very strong relationship between these variables (r = 0.955, or 95.5%), indicating that socio-economic disparities are the primary determinants of population outflow. Results. The mountainous zones of the KBR are experiencing intensive depopulation, mainly due to the migration of the working-age population. The most significant drivers of outmigration are low average income, limited employment opportunities, restricted land resources, and insufficient urban infrastructure. Approximately 70% of population loss occurs through interregional migration, reducing the republic’s demographic potential. Internal migration is predominantly directed toward foothill and lowland areas, particularly to Nalchik, the regional center. Discussion. Migration in the KBR’s mountainous territories reflects deep socio-economic and infrastructural disparities. The resulting depopulation undermines the sustainability of mountain municipalities and threatens the continuity of ethnocultural landscapes. Conclusion. The study highlights the urgent need for targeted regional policies to improve living standards, create local employment, and strengthen infrastructure in mountain areas. Suggestions for practical applications and future research. Effective demographic stabilization requires integrated regional development programs and the preservation of ethnocultural landscapes. Future research should focus on longterm monitoring of migration trends and comparative studies of other multiethnic mountain regions

Context (archaeology · Ethnic group · Human migration · Internal migration · Population · Settlement (finance · Socioeconomic status · Sustainability · Regional Socio-Economic Development Trends · Socioeconomic and Demographic Analysis · Urbanization and City Planning