Analysis of the Current State of Research in the Field of Forest Policy in Russia: Sociological and Comparative Approaches

Forest policy as specific area of research is only beginning to take shape within the scientific and educational community of the Russian Federation. Among researchers and industry specialists, there are still no well-established scientific schools dedicated to this field, and the term itself is interpreted very broadly. This work is dedicated to analyzing the current situation of research in the field of forest policy in Russia. The tools used in this study include comparative analysis, as well as quantitative and qualitative sociological methods. The empirical basis consists of the results obtained from surveys of industry experts representing various interested groups: academic institutions, research institutes, non-profit organizations, government bodies, private forest management companies, and the forestry industry. The surveys were conducted between 2019 and 2022. Additionally, an analysis of various resources (literary sources and mass media) related to this field of knowledge was carried out. As a result of the research, information was collected and organized regarding scientists and authors of works, publications that disseminate research results in this area, and existing discussion platforms where information exchange and materials related to the topic take place. The understanding of the term «forest policy» by industry specialists was analyzed, and the obtained results were interpreted. The study identified key authors of scientific works associated with research and discussions in the field of forest policy within the professional community. The significant role of representatives from non-profit organizations in this process was highlighted. A list of Russian scientific journals publishing research results in this area, as well as discussion platforms, was compiled.

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