Indicators of regional inequality in Serbia

Marko Joksimović,Rajko Golić

doi:10.5937/zrgfub1765227j

Abstract

The diversity of spatial units of the Republic of Serbia is caused by several types of regional inequality. Only some of indicators of inequality between the regions can be considered developmental problems. In this paper indicators are distinguished by which it is possible to isolate and compare the regions of Serbia according to different criteria. This approach required use of several different methodologies from the domain of geography, economics and environmental protection. Results point to Republic of Serbia as a polarized space with a trend of concentration of population and economic activity in certain regions, and at the same time, lagging of other regions.

Highlights

Regional inequalities are result of differences between regions or their essence as distinct territorial units separated by homogeneity or functionality
Regional inequalities should not be identified with regional problems
The aim of this paper was to analyse the indicators of regional inequality in Serbia and point to their mutual correlation

Summary

Introduction

Regional inequalities are result of differences between regions or their essence as distinct territorial units separated by homogeneity or functionality. Inequalities come from natural features: geological structures, relief, climate, hydrography, plant and animal life as well as land. Regional inequalities should not be identified with regional problems (erosion, weather and hydrological disasters, seismic hazards, economic underdevelopment, demographic recession and environmental conditions). Indicators for determining regional inequalities reveal the problems of individual regions in a country. Some of the consequences of regional problems such as population migration, depopulation and poverty are becoming state problems. The problems of local self-governments point to development problems within the region. The two regions need not have problems to be unequal according to a particular criterion. Due to significant disproportions (usually in economic terms), the economically backward regions are categorized as problematic

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Conclusion