Digitalization as a factor in socio-economic integration of multicultural regions in southern Russia

The ethnocultural diversity of regional development often becomes a factor in the disunity and impedes the processes of social and economic integration. The authors identify factors contributing to social cohesion at the macro-, mezo- and microlevels. Digitalization is a new factor in this system, which leads to a new society, new economy, and new system of integrative values. Most studies recognize the positive role of digital technology in enhancing social cohesion. However, digitalization will become a significant factor in the increase of the level of social cohesion if a critical mass of the population uses the information technology constantly in order to achieve their various goals. The logical question arises as to whether there is currently a digital divide in the multicultural and multiethnic region of Southern Russia. The study is based on the data concerning the use of information technology, information and telecommunication networks by the population. They were collected in the course of federal statistical observations. An analysis of ICT usage indicators in households of the North Caucasian Economic Region allows us to conclude that multi-ethnic subregions in Southern Russia show different degrees of involvement in the processes of digital transformation. Currently, Kabardino- Balkaria and Rostov region are digital leaders of the North Caucasian Economic Region in terms of aggregate indicators of using information and communication technologies. An intermediate position is occupied by Karachay-Cherkessia, Krasnodar and Stavropol krais, which are slightly above average. But there is a significant lag in these indicators in North Ossetia-Alania, Adygea and Dagestan. However, positive trends in digitalization indicators are observed in every North Caucasian federal entity and this should lead to a decrease in digital inequality and an increase in the role of digitalization as a factor in the societal dynamics of multicultural regions in Southern Russia.