Regional income inequality and EU cohesion policy in greece: convergence dynamics, 2001–2022
摘要
This study investigates the dynamics of income convergence across Greek NUTS-2 regions over the period 2001–2022, with a focus on absolute, conditional, sigma, and club convergence mechanisms. Utilizing panel data regression models, sigma convergence indices, and the log-t club convergence approach, the analysis reveals significant patterns of regional disparity. The results support the presence of both absolute and conditional β-convergence, suggesting that less developed regions tend to grow faster than more affluent ones, particularly when controlling for investment, productivity, education, and cohesion funding. However, the σ-convergence test indicates persistent volatility in income dispersion, with notable setbacks during periods of economic crisis. The club convergence analysis identifies three distinct convergence regimes—fast, medium, and slow—across the regions, with central and northern Greece demonstrating faster growth trajectories. These findings have important implications for spatial policy design and the targeting of regional development strategies under EU cohesion frameworks.