Abstract
<jats:p>The article examines a fundamental paradigmatic shift in spatial development approaches – the transition from the traditional sectoral model to a territorial approach as a new integrative paradigm. The author analyzes the theoretical foundations of this shift, drawing on key concepts in modern regional economics: new economic geography, territorial capital theory, and the place-based development framework. It is emphasized that territories are no longer perceived as passive sites for allocating productive forces but have become active agents of development, endowed with unique combinations of tangible and intangible assets. The study outlines the core principles of the territorial approach – spatial heterogeneity, cross-sectoral synergy, participatory governance, and sustainability – and highlights its advantages over the sectoral model. Special attention is given to the Russian context, where historically entrenched spatial disparities, centralized governance, and weak local institutions simultaneously create a need for territorial management and pose systemic barriers to its implementation. Strategic directions for institutional transformation are identified, including decentralization of authority, participatory mechanisms, digitalization of governance, territorial typology development, and integrated indicator systems. The conclusion stresses that successful adoption of the territorial approach in Russia will require not only political commitment but also profound structural and institutional reforms to establish an equitable, sustainable, and inclusive model of spatial development.</jats:p>