Convergence in an enlarged Europe: The role of network cities

摘要

Using economic growth data on 1088 regions (NUTS3) we analyse the determinants of regional convergence in an enlarged Europe (EU25). We introduce a number of qualitative city classifications to test whether network cities, which operate in global trade networks and relatively independent from their hinterland, converge more quickly than other areas. Evidence suggests that, apart from the traditional determinants of growth ( initial income, population density, technology), network cities indeed foster higher growth than other cities and than rural areas. A short discussion of European policy follows.