The article considers the essence and content of the strategic stability of socio-territorial systems as the most important system characteristic within the framework of the concept of harmonious spatial development. The analysis of the phenomenon of strategic stability of socio-territorial systems is made on the example of Russian rural territories as characteristic administrativeterritorial formations and socio-economic systems. The article reveals the main features of the strategic sustainability of territories as a phenomenon, formulates its defi nition based on the analysis of relevant scientifi c and methodological literature, identifi es essential basic features and main manifestations from the point of view of a systematic approach to the implementation of harmonious spatial development. The article analyzes a number of essential features of the strategic stability of socio-territorial systems from the point of view of the integrated socio-economic development of the Russian countryside. The essential importance of ensuring the strategic stability of socio-territorial systems from the point of view of modern social, economic and other challenges is noted. The parameters of the strategic stability of the rural area are revealed. The paper outlines the essential importance of implementing the strategic sustainability of territories as a basic condition for the progressive social and economic development of the Russian countryside. It is noted that Russian rural areas are currently subject to signifi cant challenges, both internal and external environment, socio-territorial systems. The paper presents a comprehensive analysis of possible challenges to the strategic sustainability of rural areas and substantiates the need to form a system for warning and responding to possible challenges, as well as restoring the normative state, functioning and development of socio-territorial systems. The article also formulated a number of recommendations to ensure the strategic sustainability of Russian rural areas. In particular, conclusions are drawn about the systemic signifi cance of the formation of the basic elements of the strategic sustainability of socio-territorial systems and their implementation as comprehensive measures to ensure harmonious spatial development.
