Formation of images of «reorganized regions» in the Russian Federation (based on expert surveys in the Altai Krai and the Altai Republic)

The article deals with the question of how the images were formed in Russian regions reorganized in the early 1990s, when some «national» autonomous regions received the status of subjects of the federation. The authors investigate these processes on the example of the Altai Krai and the Republic of Altai, using data from surveys of experts from the two regions conducted in May 2023. Not only scientists, but also civil servants, deputies, cultural figures, journalists, museum workers, public figures, representatives of travel agencies, etc. were involved as respondents. More than a half of the experts have PhD degrees. The materials presented allow us to see the similarities and differences in the image strategies of the regions, in their use of various historical and cultural symbols. Differences are manifested, for example, relating to official symbols, in assessments of historical periods, in the «ethnic» accents of the image. At the same time, a certain «kinship» has been preserved in the «cultural code» of the population of the regions: for example, soulfulness and sincerity, closeness to nature, to natural life. It is characteristic that among the iconic figures of the regions, V.M. Shukshin and G.I. Choros-Gurkin. According to the authors, both regions have fully taken place as subjects of the federation, although, of course, this does not remove the remaining problems of «subsidization», poor development of industry and services, relatively low living standards, etc. «Two Altai» can successfully complement each other and develop cooperation. The remaining unified image of «Altai» as a unique «good place» in the south of Western Siberia could contribute to the successful development of these regions.

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