Tool For Regional Development Research Articles

Оценка развитости узлов и тесноты связи креативной сети в региональной локализации

The relevance of the study is due to the need to obtain comprehensive ideas about the specifics of regional localization of creative industries, the functioning of which is based on close connections between organizations that form a creative product and organizations that promote the distribution of a creative product. The article aims to assess the development of nodes and the connectivity density of a creative network within a regional localization context. The research methodology includes the use of statistical data processing methods, as well as comparative and correlation analysis. By examining the connectivity between nodes in the creative network of organizations operating in the performing arts sector and those in the field of artistic creation, the study concludes that the connections are predominantly strong. This is attributed to the high degree of regional localization among organizations producing and promoting creative products. These findings highlight the significant role of regional development tools in fostering this creative network, particularly through the implementation of organizational and financial support measures.

Can infrastructure help ‘left behind’ places ‘catch up?’ Theorizing the role of built infrastructure in regional development

Abstract The application of infrastructure as a regional development tool in resource peripheries has received little direct inquiry in both policy and scholarly debates. This article synthesizes theoretical and empirical directions across economic geography, regional studies and critical infrastructure studies to form a research agenda for investigating the role of built infrastructure in the development of ‘left behind’ peripheral regions in the USA. We argue that infrastructural systems’ material, social, fiscal and political dimensions potentially deepen rather than mitigate structural ‘left behind-ness’. Future research and policy design must account for such dynamics if infrastructure interventions are to prove generative for regional development.

Entrepreneurial ecosystems and clusters: How can economic geographers advance debates for regional development?

The entrepreneurial ecosystem concept is now one of the most popular policy tools for regional development following a surge of interest in entrepreneurship-oriented academic circles, yet has experienced little critical engagement within economic geography discourse. We argue that economic geographers should engage with the entrepreneurial ecosystem concept because (1) it describes a shift in spatial socio-economic organisation that has thus far been underexplored by economic geographers and (2) it is an inherently chaotic concept that requires significant conceptual development, not least in relation to the cluster concept. The entrepreneurial ecosystem concept is considered a close relative and potential successor of the cluster concept, which itself rapidly achieved policy stardom despite academic concerns over its conceptual clarity. We argue that there are significant similarities and intersections between the two concepts with implications for broader regional development literatures, enabling economic geographers to enrich academic debates and consequent policy decisions.

РОЛЬ СЕТЕВЫХ СТРУКТУР В ИННОВАЦИОННОМ РАЗВИТИИ РЕГИОНОВ СЕВЕРО-ЗАПАДНОГО ФЕДЕРАЛЬНОГО ОКРУГА РОССИИ

In the context of the transformation of the Russian economy, the task of studying the current innovative potential of the regions, as well as searching for new development drivers, has become more urgent. Network structures as a tool for regional development and revitalization of innovation have long been known and used in many countries. The article discusses how the network structures formed in the region affect the innovative development of the regions of the Northwestern Federal District, depending on their industrial specialization. According to the results of the study, it was revealed that only in regions with a high share of the manufacturing industry in gross value added, network structures affect the innovative activity of the region. The influence of network structures on the dynamics of the gross regional product was not revealed in any group. The results obtained can be used to develop an industrial and innovative regional policy, serve as a basis for further research in the field of formation and development of network structures for assessing the effectiveness of a regional industrial and innovative policy.

The Economic Impact of Tourism at Regional Level: A Systematic Literature Review

We undertake a systematic literature review that looks at the economic effects of tourism at subnational levels. This review, the first of its kind to our knowledge, is timely in view of the growing body of research investigating the economic impact of tourism at subnational levels. Moreover, given the role of tourism as a regional development tool, this review would be of particular interest to policymakers. Our selection process, based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) approach, results in 60 papers forming the basis of the review. The latter first presents the key features of the literature and synthesizes its main findings. Then it provides an assessment of the literature by i) highlighting underresearched countries and topics, and suggesting themes for future research, and ii) recommending empirical strategies to be adopted by researchers that would better reflect the economic repercussions of tourism at subnational level. All in all, our review synthesizes the research done so far and outlines some venues that could be part of the future research agenda.

Public Health Teaching Books (Open Access)

European Stability Pact for South Eastern Europe Funded by Germany 2001-2010 PUBLIC HEALTH TEACHING BOOKS (1st edition) PUBLISHED OPEN ACCESS Health Systems and Their Evidence Based Development (578 pages) Management in Health Care Practice (672 pages) Health Promotion and Disease Prevention (806 pages) Health Determinants in the Scope of New Public Health (633 pages) Public Health Strategies: A Tool for Regional Development (647 pages) Methods and Tools in Public Health (1014 pages)

Hackathon on the topic of urban mobility as one of the tools of regional development through knowledge-sharing

This paper is dedicated to the importance of the university, its education, and research as well as cooperation with the practice of the region in which the university operates. The purpose of the paper is to point out the benefits of organizing events where university students as well as secondary and elementary school students have the opportunity to participate in solving specific problems of their region and city. The organization of such an event is beneficial for the city, as it will get the opportunity to find innovative solutions for its problems, and it will get citizens' opinions and perspectives on life in the city and feedback on the implemented activities. On the other hand, participants get the opportunity to work with real data, solve real problems under the guidance of experienced domestic and foreign experts and validate their ideas and verify their real contribution to their city and region. It is also a tool to encourage especially young residents to look for solutions for a better quality of life in the city and in the region and to keep such smart people in the region.

New regional policy of Ukraine: tools and directions of response in the context of modern challenges

The experience of the new regional policy of the EU and its implementation in the domestic economy is important for Ukraine, which, on the one hand, is facing the unprecedented challenge of the war with Russia and its destructive influence on the economy and infrastructure, and, on the other hand, under these conditions has received the status of a candidate for EU membership, and has thus taken an important step towards EU membership. The purpose of the article is to research new approaches to the formation of the regional policy of Ukraine and the directions of its convergence with the regional policy of the EU. The article defines the directions of convergence of regional policies of the EU and Ukraine, namely: synchronization of development planning periods, stimulation of development of functional types of territories, common principles of regional policy formation, etc. The advantages and disadvantages of the use of regional development tools in Ukraine are analyzed, including regional development strategies, regional development agencies, typology of territories, the system of financial equalization of territorial development, etc. The peculiarities of the development of the domestic regional policy related to its implicitness, the shift of the emphasis from the regional to the local level, and the reduction of the resource and institutional capacity of the regions are outlined. The main challenges and risks of Ukraine’s regional policy caused by the war, reforms, and peculiarities of national and regional administration are defined and directions for their leveling are outlined. The article emphasizes that the prospects for the development of territories in Ukraine should be planned taking into account structural changes in the economy, business relocation, changes in the structure of population resettlement, changes in logistics chains, the permanent threat of the neighborhood with the Russian Federation, etc. The primary tasks should be the following: making changes in the strategic documents of the state and regions, creating a fund for the restoration of territories, changing the approaches to financing regional projects, and strengthening cost equalization.

Hacking Hekla: Exploring the dynamics of digital innovation in rural areas

AbstractThis article explores innovation initiatives in rural communities in Iceland conveyed through the implementation and perceived outcomes of the hackathon Hacking Hekla. Digitalisation is often proposed as a new, all‐purpose tool for regional development that responds to rural challenges innovatively. However, the digital role is often less clear when examining finer development practices. Hackathons are frequently applied to achieve instant economic and societal change. Through the example of Hacking Hekla, we research the challenges and outcomes of creative interventions and critically explore the value of innovation and digitalisation in the context of rural development in Iceland. Based on action research, we use the hackathon as a tool for knowledge generation and intervention in regional policy discourse with the intention to foster applied digital innovation. Data were collected using qualitative semi‐structured interviews. The study demonstrates a gap between regional policies emphasising digital innovation and innovation practices on the ground and argues that fostering digital innovation in rural communities is a complex process that could demonstrate effects only in the long term.

Innovative scientific and technological centers as a promising tool for regional development of science and technology leadership

Subject. This article discusses the role of scientific research in the development of the modern economy and the forms of State support for regions with high scientific and technological potential. Objectives. The article aims to develop new tools for State support of scientific activities. Methods. For the study, I used general scientific research methods. Results. The article describes the features of the development of innovative scientific and technological centers and their differences from innovation and research and education centers. The article also presents practical recommendations for improving the efficiency of innovative research and education centers. Conclusions. The effective development of science and technology in Russia requires adjusting the methods of supporting innovative projects depending on the stage of their implementation.

IMPLEMENTATION OF STATE TOURISM POLICY IN THE CONTEXT OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

The article updates the issue of the need to improve the state tourism policy using tools of regional development and public-private partnership. The authors emphasized that the post-war recovery of Ukraine should involve the use of internal reserves and opportunities to restore Ukraine’s economic potential, among which the tourism industry should occupy a leading place. It was emphasized that the field of tourism in Ukraine has significant unrealized potential, and under the condition of the development and implementation of an effective state tourism policy in combination with the use of regional development tools, the tourism industry can become a powerful basis for the economic recovery of both regions and the national economy as a whole. The purpose of the study is to analyze the current state of state tourism policy in Ukraine in the context of the use of regional development tools, as well as the specifics of the use of public-private partnership as a mechanism for implementing a new state policy in the field of tourism. The study stated that the transformations in the system of public administration and regulation, which were aimed at increasing the level of decentralization of public administration and the domestic economy, contribute to the use of public-private partnership tools in the field of tourism. The ultimate goal of decentralization was, first of all, to ensure the ability of local communities to independently, at the expense of their own resources, solve issues of local importance. It is about providing territorial communities with greater resources and mobilizing their internal reserves, namely: implemented changes have expanded the financial capabilities of local self-government and made it possible to make the new united communities economically self-sufficient and capable. Fiscal decentralization in combination with other modern instruments of state support creates conditions for a wide budget space for the implementation of local initiatives, and a key place in this system of relationships should be occupied by public-private partnership. The authors proposed the distribution of interests and areas of responsibility of the participants in the system of public-private partnership relations in the field of tourism.

Tourist cluster as a tool of regional development and economic growth

The article deals with the role of tourism clusters as a tool for regional development and economic growth. Countries around the world are trying to succeed in tourism to improve economic performance. The development of tourism in the regions and its promotion of GDP, employment, foreign exchange inflows and regional development, infrastructure, social and economic integration are proved. The role of the cluster approach not only in the production sphere but also in the tourism industry is revealed. The tourism cluster is considered as an effective tool to increase productivity and competitiveness. The necessity of constructive rethinking of mechanisms of conversion of economic subjects on the basis of definition of preconditions, stages and processes of formation and development of tourism clusters is proved.

Механизм экономического развития системы потребительской кооперации на основе кластерного подхода

The relevance and novelty of the mechanism of economic development of the consumer cooperation system based on the cluster approach is due to the modern need for the economic development of consumer cooperation organizations using methods and tools of regional development that have proven themselves in developed countries, which ensure the appropriate competitiveness of consumer cooperation products in the regional and national markets. The mechanism of economic development provides an effective link between the elements of the regional cooperative cluster, the core of which is consumer cooperation.

Sustainable Development Directions for Wine Tourism in Douro Wine Region, Portugal

Despite sustainable wine tourism being one of the hottest topics of the moment, there is still a considerable knowledge gap. If managed with due care and consideration of the region’s carrying capacity, wine tourism can be an essential regional development tool for improving business performance, environmental awareness, and community values. On the other hand, it can be responsible for negative environmental impacts, creating local resentment. This paper explored and contextualized wine tourism and sustainable winegrowing practices in the Portuguese Douro wine region. The aim was to offer practical recommendations and directives for such a unique landscape. From the adoption of regenerative agriculture and natural-based solutions at the field level to engaging in sustainability wine programs or certification schemes integrating both sectors, it is indispensable to develop frameworks to assess sustainability performance, tourism development, and the impact on the local population. Nevertheless, to accomplish business success and territorial development, a win–win relationship between all stakeholders is foremost needed. The Douro region must therefore start by investing in stronger collaboration networks between local actors through careful and integrated planning so that the needs of all interested parties, including its residents, are considered and incorporated in future sustainable tourism initiatives.

INTEGRATION DIRECTIONS TO IMPROVE THE COMPETITIVENESS OF THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY

The article is devoted to the study of trends in the hospitality industry in Ukraine and the world and the search for ways to improve the competitiveness of the study area. The aim of the publication is to substantiate the directions of increasing the competitiveness of the hospitality industry in the regions of Ukraine in modern conditions on the basis of the analysis of trends in the studied sphere. Methodology. The study is based on the analysis of scientific literature and points of view of foreign and domestic experts in the field of hospitality. The study also used analytical data of the World Travel and Tourism Council and the National Tourism Organization of Ukraine. During the organization and conduct of the study were used general scientific and special methods, such as analysis, synthesis, comparison, identification of destructive factors affecting the state and development of the hospitality industry. Using a structural-logical method, presented a vision of the implementation of modern ways to improve the competitiveness of the hospitality industry in the regions of Ukraine in the conditions of the spread of pandemic. Results. The content and importance of the hospitality industry in the development of the regions of Ukraine and the world. Defined the content of the definitions under study, summarized and formulated approaches to defining the relationship between the concepts of "hospitality industry" and "tourism industry". The analysis of the main indicators of the hospitality industry. In order to find ways to improve the competitive advantages of the hospitality industry and determine the target audience the analysis of indicators of inbound and outbound tourism in Ukraine. Described trends in the development of the hospitality industry in modern conditions. The decrease in almost all indicators of development of the hospitality industry is revealed. The data of the World Council of Travel and Tourism about the state of the hospitality industry in Ukraine are analyzed. The reduction of the total contribution of travel to employment in Ukraine in 2020 to 6.3% was revealed. Identified directions and measures to strengthen the competitive advantages of the hospitality industry in the regions of Ukraine. It is proved that promising directions to improve the competitiveness of the hospitality industry in modern conditions are the association of business entities of the industry, as well as the use of modern digital and information tools. Such associations can be alliances, clusters, unions, brotherhoods, and so on. Joint cooperation of economic entities of the region will allow to create a comprehensive regional product that meets international standards, the needs of modern consumers, safe and of high quality, as well as able to integrate into the world tourism market. Practical implications. The study, based on analysis of major trends in the hospitality industry in Ukraine and the world has allowed to define integrated directions for improving the competitiveness of the hospitality industry, the implementation of which in the regions allows you to create a comprehensive regional product that meets international standards and the needs of the modern consumer, is of high quality and safe. Value/originality. The proposed directions for improving the competitiveness of the hospitality industry are the leading tools of regional development, which will quickly overcome the consequences of the spread of the pandemic, promote socio-economic growth of regions and the integration of regional products and services in the global tourism market.

Regions of the North-West of Russia: Analysis of the Conditions for the Implementation of Social Innovation

Introduction. International experience shows that social innovation is an important tool for regional development, although this type of innovation is a relatively new phenomenon for Russia. On the basis of the research conducted, the article analyzes the conditions for the implementation of social innovation which has a significant potential to meet the challenges of territorial development. Materials and Methods. Based on materials from open sources, as well as on an expert survey conducted by the Vologda Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences with the direct participation of the author, the conditions for the implementation of social innovation prevailing in the constituent entities of the Northwestern Federal District of the Russian Federation were analyzed in the context of legal, infrastructural, economic, and socio-cultural components. Using the results of the expert survey, a quantitative assessment of the level of development of the conditions for the implementation of social innovation was given. The main barriers preventing the reproduction of social innovation within the territory under consideration were revealed. Results. The study has revealed that in the regions of the Northwestern Federal District the conditions for the implementation of social innovation are at the stage of active development: infrastructure and legislation are being formed; financial, tax and property support is being provided; educational programs are being implemented. The study has also shown that there are a number of problematic aspects associated with the underdevelopment of the regulatory framework, with the lack of Centers for innovation in the social sphere in a number of constituent entities, with the limited availability of some financial instruments, with low social and innovative activity of people, etc. Discussion and Conclusion. The results obtained are supported by other studies, which substantiates the need for policy adjustment towards improving the relevant regulatory framework, economic conditions, infrastructure, and socio-cultural environment. The research materials can be used by regional authorities when making managerial decisions to support social innovation; they can also be useful for further studies within the framework of the issues under consideration.

Regions of the North-West of Russia: Analysis of the Conditions for the Implementation of Social Innovation

Introduction. International experience shows that social innovation is an important tool for regional development, although this type of innovation is a relatively new phenomenon for Russia. On the basis of the research conducted, the article analyzes the conditions for the implementation of social innovation which has a significant potential to meet the challenges of territorial development. Materials and Methods. Based on materials from open sources, as well as on an expert survey conducted by the Vologda Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences with the direct participation of the author, the conditions for the implementation of social innovation prevailing in the constituent entities of the Northwestern Federal District of the Russian Federation were analyzed in the context of legal, infrastructural, economic, and socio-cultural components. Using the results of the expert survey, a quantitative assessment of the level of development of the conditions for the implementation of social innovation was given. The main barriers preventing the reproduction of social innovation within the territory under consideration were revealed. Results. The study has revealed that in the regions of the Northwestern Federal District the conditions for the implementation of social innovation are at the stage of active development: infrastructure and legislation are being formed; financial, tax and property support is being provided; educational programs are being implemented. The study has also shown that there are a number of problematic aspects associated with the underdevelopment of the regulatory framework, with the lack of Centers for innovation in the social sphere in a number of constituent entities, with the limited availability of some financial instruments, with low social and innovative activity of people, etc. Discussion and Conclusion. The results obtained are supported by other studies, which substantiates the need for policy adjustment towards improving the relevant regulatory framework, economic conditions, infrastructure, and socio-cultural environment. The research materials can be used by regional authorities when making managerial decisions to support social innovation; they can also be useful for further studies within the framework of the issues under consideration.

Five Roles of Cross-border Cooperation Against Re-bordering

ABSTRACT The paper observes an advent of unilateralism, brought by the pandemic, which has restricted cross-border flows and co-operation in the E.U. The pandemic re-introduced borders back in the E.U. and introduced new national border policies, which have complicated the lives of the people in the border regions. This might imply the imperfect communication between local cross-border co-operation stakeholders and central governments. It is therefore proposed to use the set of following five roles, which explain the importance of cross-border co-operation in cross-border regions: (1) multi-level governance form, (2) regional development tool, (3) paradiplomacy form, (4) post-conflict reconciliation tool and (5) Europe-building instrument. As those five roles cover functional, ideational and structural dimensions of cross-border co-operation, they have a potential to prevent the representatives of the central states from one-size-fits-all solutions and respect specificities of borderlands. This should help in the cases of repeated health crises, which would restrain the free border crossing in the E.U.

Analysis of regional targeted programs in the field of cultural heritage protection

Problem setting. Executive authorities and local self-government bodies in Ukraine take part in the development and implementation of regional targeted programs aimed at the development of respective territories. While elaborating the programs, they apply the regulatory framework determining the principles of development, approval and implementation of state targeted programs, that does not reflect the specificity of regional programs, territorial community programs. Project management methodology constitutes one of the most efficient regional development tools that are almost not used in the development of regional targeted programs. To ensure efficient management of cultural heritage protection, attention should be paid to the development and further implementation of regional targeted programs, with due account of the project approach methodology.
 Recent research and publications analysis. The studies of the project approach application for solving development tasks at different levels of public administration have been performed by Т. Mamatova, О. Medvedieva, V. Rach, І. Chykarenko, and others. Analytical study of cultural heritage management as well as specific aspects of program analysis has been made within the project “ReHERIT: Shared Responsibility for Common Heritage” and project “CHOICE: Cultural Heritage and Contemporaneity”.
 Highlighting previously unsettled parts of the general problem. In spite of the researcher’s interest in the selected range of problems, the issue of program development in the field of cultural heritage with due account of the project approach remains understudied.
 Paper main body. According to the data of the analysis made, as of the beginning of 2021 comprehensive cultural heritage preservation programs are being implemented in 10 regions of Ukraine. In 12 more regions activities (program section, specific activities or projects) aimed to preserve cultural heritage, fixed in the cultural development or economic and social development programs are being implemented. Kyiv and Luhansk regions (government-controlled territory of Ukraine) have not approved regional programs regulating the field of cultural heritage protection.
 The results of program analysis have pointed to problems in the development and protection of cultural heritage, that have been grouped by different aspects. Problems indicated in most programs are of descriptive nature, characterize the situation as of the moment of development, with no account of the trends over a certain period of time, are not always supported by actual statistical, financial, and other indicators.
 Analysis of regional programs under implementation has shown that some of them contain general wording, goals, are characterized by the lack of logical correlation between directions and problems.
 Availability of respective resource provision constitutes the necessary precondition for the achievement of the goal and expected outcomes of programs.
 Under the decisions “On the Regional Budget for 2021”, as far as allocation of the regional budget costs for the implementation of local/regional programs is concerned, regional councils have approved funding for the implementation of 4 programs (out of 10 comprehensive ones), the activities of which are aimed at the cultural heritage preservation.
 Conclusions of the research and prospects for further studies. Implementation of the project approach in the development and implementation of regional targeted programs will enable to more efficiently and rationally use budget funds and involve budget and non-budget funding based on the outcomes planned and complying with the state and regional policy priorities.
 Unified principles and approaches are not followed in the development of regional programs. In order to improve the efficiency of program implementation it is necessary to take into account mutual relations between program components, adequacy of the goal, tasks, and final outcomes in the course of their development.

The influence of the Covid-19 pandemic on Czech-Polish cross-border cooperation: From debordering to re-bordering?

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic brought many changes to social behaviours in Europe. One of its major consequences was the temporary closure of borders, which was introduced as a measure to prevent the uncontrolled pandemic spreading and involved internal Schengen borders. This has had a major impact in the way in which cross-border cooperation has been conducted in Europe, including the Czech-Polish borderland, as it dramatically restrained all flows across borders. In this paper, we evaluate the impact of the pandemic on five roles of cross-border cooperation: 1) as a multi-level governance form; 2) as a regional development tool; 3) as a para-diplomacy form; 4) as a post-conflict reconciliation tool; and 5) as Europe-building. We argue that the impacts of the pandemic complicated regional development and the Europe-building role of cross-border cooperation in the Czech-Polish borderland. The article envisages re-bordering processes also in the Czech-Polish borderland, but with important exceptions in the regions with a high level of cross-border integration, mainly in the Euroregion Těšínské Slezsko/Śląsk Cieszyński. The paper also calls for the elaboration of the guidelines for possible repeated (Schengen) border closures and proposes modifications of the INTERREG microprojects schemes, to keep them attractive also in times of expected cuts in public finances.