Abstract
Purpose: the purpose of the research is to study the problems of managing the socio-economic development of the southern Federal district regions and to produce proposals of solution. Design/methodology/approach: The research uses the methods of dialectical approach, the method of system approach, comparative analysis, as well as the graphical method and methods of comparison and grouping. Conclusions: dynamic socio-economic development of the entire country begins with ensuring the effective development of territories: counties and regions. In turn, the "speed" of socio-economic development of territories will depend on the effectiveness of using their inherent advantages, specific development factors that are able to maximize the "release" of potential, or internal reserves of each territory. In the context of changing conditions of social development, it is necessary to review the factors underlying the socio-economic development of territories. Practical Implications: in recent years, the management system of regional socio-economic development in Russia has been subjected to transformation, as manifested in changes of the conceptual ideas and theoretical and methodological approaches to managing the socio-economic development of territories. The lack of effectiveness of the existing concepts of spatial development makes it necessary to review the priorities underlying the development of territories – the core activities that were unable to be the "locomotives" of economic development. The results of the study can be useful for developing a further strategy for sustainable socio-economic development of the regions. Originality/value: the Relevance of the research is not in dispute, in modern conditions, the state draws up new forms of its territorial development, due to the priority of the industry in ensuring the national security of the country, ensuring a high standard of living . The activity of Federal districts is aimed not only at achieving administrative and political goals, as it was at the very beginning of their formation, but also at implementing socio-economic functions. Keywords: region, regional system, socio-economic development, regional strategy, regional programs JEL Code:M20, ?29, O13, Q10.Article