Institutional conditions in the sphere of use of mineral resources in Russia: systemic character in theory, fragmentation in reality

The paper considers problems encountered in the formation of institutional systems in the sphere of mineral resources. In the Russian situation when mineral resources are in state ownership while the major assets located on the surface are mostly the assets of joint-stock companies it is especially important to have a comprising and solid system of norms and rules (of the institutions) forming the climate in the sphere of the use of mineral resources. Such a system of institutions must include not only special features in involvement of various mineral resources into economic turnover but also provide instruments for resolving social conflicts arising about the choice of directions in the use of mineral resources. Of a special importance are procedures in federal/regional interactions.