摘要:The article considers modern approaches to ensuring sustainable development of territories. The analysis of publications that set out best practices for harmonizing the socio-economic processes of several regions of the world is carried out. In general, they ensure the satisfaction of the population needs of different localization territories, has been carried out. The empirical part of the study shows the opinion of the regional community of the South of Russia with respect to the possibilities of implementing various approaches to ensure the balanced development of the strategically important territory of Russia. The role of developing regional brands, including rural tourism, for the sustainable development of the Stavropol Territory and improving the quality of life of the population is determined. The competitive potential of the Stavropol Territory, according to the expert community, is focused on the production of grain crops. On the second place are the resort and sanatorium services and opportunities for the development of rural and ethnic tourism. Not enough attention is given to the development of organic food production.