Finalist: Tambov Region
Tambov Region is the second largest in the Central-Cherozemny Economic Region of Russia (Chernozem means “black earth”, fertile soil). During the Soviet years, it was home to many chemical and defense enterprises. Following the collapse of the USSR in the 90s, the region saw a sharp decline in production, up to a complete shutdown of some enterprises. The region's economy went down, there was a significant outflow of population.
Thirty years later the effect is still present, the region's population is almost 1.5 times smaller than it was in the late Soviet period. It is also one of the oldest populations in the country, with 30% over the working age and only 15% under 16.
However, in recent years, there were steady positive dynamics in the region’s economy, its core being the agro-industrial complex. More than 80% of the territory is used in agriculture. Tambov Region ranks among Russia's top producers of grain, soybeans, pork, alcohol and sugar.
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Fyodor Firsov shows an antique car, which he acquired for his small private antique museum, founded by his own efforts in the courtyard and entrance of an apartment building that used to be the estate of a local merchant. Fedor is a native resident of Tambov, he has gone through a difficult life path, in his youth he was associated with criminal groups, overcame drug addiction, now he is engaged in public activities, various social constrictions, he popularizes the history of Tambov city and the Tambov region, participates in the restoration of architectural objects and improvement of the urban environment.
