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DEMOGRAPHIC POTENTIAL OF THE REGION: SPATIAL ANALYSIS
Under existing socio-economic conditions which are characterized by tough competition the region resource base is given particular attention. The importance of natural wealth declines and the significance of hidden resources steps forward. Hence the humankind is facing the problem how to bring out their potential. In this regard, the demographic potential of the region (geodemographic potential) along with the economic, geopolitical and others are among the leading indicators that determine region competitiveness and form its socio-economic situation. Like natural resources, population has spatial differentiation, and therefore territorial differences in quantitative and qualitative terms. The article considers terminological approaches to the concept of "demographic potential", reveals the necessity to consider the spatial component, formulates the concept of "geodemographic potential" and proposes methodology to assess it. At the moment there is a growing awareness of the need to resolve demographic problems at all levels of the government, and tools to improve demographic and family policy are considered. Ultimately, development of proper and timely decisions to ensure sustainable socio-demographic development should have a positive impact on socio-economic growth indicators. Therefore, one of the most important components to guarantee sustainable socio-economic development of the country, in our view, is to take into account its geodemographic potential.