The article examines approaches to solving the problem of overcoming the depressiveness of Russian rural areas, increasing social differentiation and territorial disintegration, which becomes the most important factor hampering the country's socio-economic development. The main factors inhibiting the development of rural areas and contributing to the deepening of the systemic crisis of the Russian village are examined. The urgency of forming an effective mechanism for overcoming economic and social inertia in rural areas, responding to modern challenges and risks, is substantiated.

Margarita Afonasova (2017). The Concept of Convergent Development of Rural Areas of the Russian Federation, European Research Studies Journal Volume XX Issue 3A, 14-38