Territorial Dynamics in Europe: Regions and cities in the global economy

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May 2012 - The sixth volume of ESPON Territorial Observations focuses on Regions and cities in the global economy.

Europe is strongly integrated in the world as an important economic power. The balance of influence and economic weight of different continents and countries are currently changing rapidly. At the same time the world is connecting swiftly creating a larger market place and space for common policy making and mutual exchange of trade, innovation, culture and languages.

A key policy issue for Europe is to take advantage of the benefits and potentials for economic development of globalisation while mitigating its challenges. The EU 2020 Strategy is an important effort to ensure a future strong position of Europe in the world. In delivering this contribution both private and public investment in cities and regions will be decisive factors. Their possibilities for success are strongly linked to economic factors such as trade, to the endowment of human resources, global services, networking and innovative capacity.

The success and integration of regions and cities in the world economy and global networks is also depending

(1) on their global connectivity and their accessibility and infrastructure provisions as well as their attractiveness as places for investment in global products and services,

(2) and their access and connectivity to main globally important places within Europe.

All in all, Europe faces win-win opportunities by including the territorial dimension when addressing the global challenge. This could help in ensuring the continuing global relevance of Europe and increase the capacity for European growth. With this publication, ESPON offers evidence and points for policy consideration related to regions and cities in the global economy.

ESPON Territorial Observation No. 6 on Territorial Dynamics in Europe - Regions and cities in the global economy, including maps and figures, is available below.

Should you have questions please do not hesitate to contact the ESPON Coordination Unit at [email protected]
 

 

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