Some Issues of Modern Settlement and Administrative-Territorial Structure of Russia

Abstract

The article summarizes the main features of the formation of the administrative-territorial structure and management of Russia in comparison with a similar process in France. The greatest attention in the consideration of this problem is given to the natural process of self-organization of the population, as a result of which from the initially small settlement systems with their centers and infrastructure an integral settlement structure of the country with a clear three-level hierarchy of administrative-territorial division and management was formed. The role of political transformations in the country after the 1917 revolution and the results of strong- willed decisions of the leaders of the USSR regarding the establishment of administrative-territorial units on a national basis are estimated. The influence of various factors on the new administrative and territorial structure of Russia emerging after 1991 is considered. The article analyzes the provisions of Federal Law No. 131-FZ "On the General Principles of the Organization of Local Self-Government in the Russian Federation" regarding the administrative-territorial division of Russia and the powers of municipal entities at variouslevels. The most controversial provisions in the existing administrative-territorial division and separation of powers of various levels are revealed. Suggestions are given for improving a number of articles of Federal Law No. 131-FZ.