The Chukotka peninsula is the traditional home to the indigenous Chukcha, Koryak, Eskimo, Evenk and five other small groups with unique cultures. And in a region rich in oil, gas, coal and gold, people remain a valuable resource.

About eight years ago the Chukotka authorities demolished the old buildings in Chukcha villages all around the peninsula and built a total of 800 new houses. They're spacious and, most importantly, very warm inside – and free of charge for the people.

This is just one example of how the authorities are supporting indigenous people in the region. They also provide remote villages with free transport, walkie-talkies, food, medicines and clothing.

What's even more essential, they give people jobs.
 
“Unemployment is the major enemy of people here in Chukotka. Alcoholism follows. When people have nothing to do they get down and the only way to fight against it is developing industries, infrastructure and building to provide people with a job,” said Anna Otke from the Indigenous People Department.
 
The Chukcha and Evenk work in factories, mines, shops and even at schools, teaching their own language and culture.

However, a great number of these people live in the tundra. For years they've been breeding reindeer, hunting sea animals or fishing. The collapse of the USSR almost ruined this remote part of Russia and the safety of these people suffered as well.

When the reindeer eat all the moss in a certain area, the Chukcha gather up their tents, board their sleighs and follow the animals.

Without these beautiful cattle their future is under serious threat. Developing reindeer breeding could also save the way of life of these people.

Since reindeer breeding became a national project, the number of animals has tripled. The breeders' salary has also rocketed.