Main factors in the transformation of regional and ethnic identity

Aim . To identify the most important factors in the transformation of ethnocultural space and population identity through the example of a multicultural trans-border region. Materials and Methods . This research vector provides possibilities to consider this issue in line with the well-known ideas of L. N. Gumilyov regarding the adaptation of ethnic groups to landscapes, as well as to apply an analysis algorithm based on the study of various forms of interethnic contacts and ethnic processes. The author's data from field expedition research, including sociological surveys of the population (more than three thousand people on both sides of the Russian-Kazakh border), interviews, expert assessments, including observation, mapping, etc. have been used. Historical sources, as well as archival documents and existing cartographic materials from various times, have been analysed. Results . Ethno-cultural groups interact with each other and adapt to landscapes, as a result of these processes ethnic cultures acquire common features and regional specificities. These factors have been evaluated and features of interethnic interaction between migrants and the autochthonous population as well as transformation of the ethno-cultural space are revealed. The speed of transformation is influenced by historical, geopolitical, psychological and economic factors. The article is illustrated with specific examples. Geographical aspects of transformation of ethno-cultural identity as the main marker of ethnic culture in trans-border regions have been considered Conclusion . The most important factors of ethno-cultural space and regional identity transformation are adaptation in landscapes, intercultural interaction, migration, change of ethnic composition of the population and divergence as a consequence of delimitation.