In:
Urban Studies, SAGE Publications, Vol. 58, No. 14 ( 2021-11), p. 2880-2900
Abstract:
The analysis of regional convergence often stays at the level of documentation, with limited attention placed on the drivers of convergence/divergence dynamics. This article offers a systematic analysis of this, examining the role of first-nature (location, proximity, physical geography) and second-nature geography (economic structure, agglomeration, economic potential) in accounting for regional synchronicity in growth trajectories (stochastic convergence). Utilising historical data for Greece at the prefectural level and up-to-date time-series econometric techniques, we test for the presence of stochastic convergence in the country over three decades prior to the crisis; identify the pairs of regions which exhibit co-movement in their growth dynamics; and examine the covariates of this. Our results unveil a picture of limited-only and cluster-like convergence, driven predominantly by factors related to accessibility, sectoral specialisations, labour market dynamism, market potential and selected locational characteristics. This supports two propositions: (a) convergence is an endogenous process, related to shared and incongruent characteristics of regions; and, by implication, (b) regional disparities are structural (in the sense that they are linked to economic and spatial structure) and thus require targeted policies in order to be addressed.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0042-0980
,
1360-063X
DOI:
10.1177/0042098020981361
Language:
English
Publisher:
SAGE Publications
Publication Date:
2021
detail.hit.zdb_id:
5372-7
detail.hit.zdb_id:
1482794-3
SSG:
14
SSG:
3,4
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